The Zacks Metal Products - Procurement and Fabrication industry remains well-positioned supported by healthy, strong demand across its varied end markets. Recent expansion in the manufacturing sector instils optimism. Strategic pricing and cost-control initiatives are expected to help companies maintain margins despite the impact of tariffs.  Companies in the industry like TriMas Corp. (TRS) , GrafTech International (EAF) and NN Inc. (NNBR) are expected to gain from these trends and their efforts to gain ma ...

Core Viewpoint - GrafTech International Ltd. will hold its Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2025 Earnings Conference Call on February 6, 2026, to discuss financial results and current business initiatives [1] Group 1: Earnings Conference Call Details - The earnings conference call will take place at 10:00 a.m. (EST) on February 6, 2026 [1] - Financial results for the fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2025, will be released before market open on the same day [1] - The conference call can be accessed via dial-in numbers for the U.S. and international participants, with a specific conference ID provided [2] Group 2: Company Overview - GrafTech is a leading manufacturer of high-quality graphite electrode products, essential for electric arc furnace steel production and other metal industries [3] - The company has a competitive portfolio of low-cost, ultra-high power graphite electrode manufacturing facilities, among the highest capacity in the world [3] - GrafTech is uniquely positioned as the only large-scale graphite electrode producer that is substantially vertically integrated into petroleum needle coke, providing competitive advantages in product quality and cost [3]

Industry Overview - The Zacks Metal Products - Procurement and Fabrication industry is experiencing strong demand across various end markets, with improvements in order levels and strategic pricing expected to help maintain margins despite tariff impacts [1][2][4] - The industry primarily includes metal processing and fabrication service providers that transform metal into parts and components used in sectors such as construction, aerospace, automotive, and more [3] Current Trends - The Institute for Supply Management's manufacturing index showed a slight increase to 49.1% in September from 48.7% in August, indicating a potential recovery in the industry [4] - The Production Index registered 50.3%, reflecting growth in fabricated metal products, while new orders showed renewed demand momentum despite overall contraction in the New Orders Index [4] Strategic Initiatives - Companies are implementing strategic pricing adjustments, cost-reduction initiatives, and productivity enhancements to tackle rising labor, freight, and fuel costs [5] - Diversification of supplier bases and modifications to supply chains are also being pursued to mitigate tariff impacts [5] Growth Catalysts - Emphasis on automation and cost-effective technical solutions is positioning the industry for future growth, with expected demand increases in manufacturing, aerospace, and automotive sectors [6] - Rapid industrialization in developing economies presents additional long-term growth opportunities [6] Industry Performance - The Zacks Metal Products - Procurement and Fabrication industry ranks 19, placing it in the top 8% of 243 Zacks industries, indicating positive near-term prospects [7] - Over the past year, the industry has grown 15.4%, lagging behind the sector's 20.5% rise but outperforming the Zacks S&P 500 composite's 3.5% increase [10] Valuation Metrics - The industry is currently trading at a trailing 12-month EV/EBITDA ratio of 17.38X, compared to the S&P 500's 17.93X and the Industrial Products sector's 19.57X [13] Company Highlights - **Century Aluminum (CENX)**: Investing $50 million to restart over 50,000MT of idled production, expected to boost U.S. aluminum production by nearly 10% [19] - **Ardagh Metal Packaging (AMBP)**: Anticipating 3% growth in shipments and has raised its adjusted EBITDA guidance for 2025 to $720-$735 million [24] - **TriMas Corporation (TRS)**: Forecasting consolidated sales growth at the higher end of the 8-10% range for full-year 2025, driven by strong demand in its packaging segment [28] - **GrafTech International (EAF)**: Sales volume rose 9% year-over-year, with a strong focus on the U.S. market and an expected 8-10% increase in sales volume for 2025 [32]

Group 1 - GrafTech International Ltd. reported its second-quarter results, indicating that discussions about potential recovery were not reflected in the actual financial performance [1] - The company is recognized as a leader in the investment group "Value In Corporate Events," which focuses on identifying opportunities in IPOs, mergers & acquisitions, and earnings reports [1] - The service provides coverage of 10 major corporate events each month, aiming to find the best investment opportunities [1]

Group 1 - The article does not provide any specific content related to a company or industry [1]

Financial Performance - Net sales for Q3 2025 increased by $13.3 million, or 10%, to $143.998 million compared to Q3 2024, driven by the recognition of $11.2 million of previously deferred revenue[134] - Gross profit for Q3 2025 was $10.307 million, a significant improvement of $22.381 million compared to a gross loss of $12.074 million in Q3 2024[133] - For the first nine months of 2025, net sales decreased by $16.888 million, or 4%, to $387.677 million, primarily due to a decrease in the weighted-average realized price[141] - Net loss for Q3 2025 was $28.5 million, a decrease from $36.1 million in Q3 2024, while the nine-month net loss increased to $154.7 million from $81.7 million[223] - Adjusted EBITDA for Q3 2025 was $13.0 million, compared to a loss of $6.2 million in Q3 2024, and $12.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2025, up from $8.5 million year-over-year[223] Expenses and Costs - Cost of goods sold decreased by $2.8 million, or 2%, to $132.041 million in Q3 2025, reflecting ongoing cost reduction initiatives[135] - Research and development expenses increased by $0.394 million, or 32%, to $1.639 million in Q3 2025, indicating a focus on innovation[133] - Selling and administrative expenses increased by $8.238 million, or 25%, to $41.673 million in the first nine months of 2025, influenced by various cost increases[145] - Interest expense rose by $8.014 million, or 49%, to $24.517 million in Q3 2025, due to new debt facilities[137] - Cash cost of goods sold for Q3 2025 was $109.3 million, compared to $110.8 million in Q3 2024, with cash cost of goods sold per MT at $3,795, down from $4,197 year-over-year[228] Cash Flow and Liquidity - As of September 30, 2025, the company had liquidity of $384.3 million, consisting of cash and cash equivalents of $177.6 million and available credit facilities[154] - Net cash used in operating activities increased by $47.0 million in the first nine months of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, primarily due to a $43.5 million increase in cash used for working capital[198] - Free cash flow for Q3 2025 was $18.4 million, slightly down from $19.7 million in Q3 2024, while the nine-month free cash flow was $(81.2) million, worsening from $(35.2) million[227] - The company reported a net cash used in investing activities of $20.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2025, compared to $21.4 million for the same period in 2024[199] - The company reported a net change in cash and cash equivalents of $(81.2) million for the nine months ended September 30, 2025, compared to $(35.2) million for the same period in 2024[198] Debt and Financing - Long-term debt remained stable at $1.1 billion as of September 30, 2025, indicating a consistent capital structure[154] - The Company entered into a $2,250 million senior secured term facility and a $330 million senior secured revolving credit facility, with no outstanding term loans as of September 30, 2025[185] - The First Lien Term Loans amount to $175 million, with an additional $100 million in delayed draw commitments available until July 23, 2026[178] - As of September 30, 2025, GrafTech was in compliance with all debt covenants in the New Notes Indentures[164] - GrafTech Global issued $450 million aggregate principal amount of Existing 9.875% Notes in June 2023, with proceeds also used to repay borrowings under the 2018 Term Loan Facility[173] Shareholder Information - The Company had $99.0 million remaining under its stock repurchase authorization as of September 30, 2025, with no shares repurchased in the third quarter of 2025[192] - Loss per share for Q3 2025 was $(1.10), an improvement from $(1.40) in Q3 2024, while the nine-month loss per share increased to $(5.97) from $(3.17) year-over-year[216] - Adjusted loss per share for Q3 2025 was $(1.03), compared to $(1.33) in Q3 2024, and $(3.98) for the nine months ended September 30, 2025, up from $(2.83) in the same period last year[216] Strategic Outlook - The company plans to evaluate strategic transactions, including acquisitions and refinancing existing debt, to enhance liquidity and operational flexibility[153] - The company experienced non-cash losses from foreign currency remeasurement, impacting financial results, with adjustments totaling $1.4 million for Q3 2025[223]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - GrafTech International reported a 9% year-over-year increase in sales volume, reaching nearly 29,000 metric tons in Q3 2025, with a cumulative sales volume growth of over 20% since the end of 2023 [4][5] - The company generated positive adjusted EBITDA of $13 million for the quarter and $25 million in net cash from operating activities, with an ending liquidity position of $384 million as of September [6][24][26] - A net loss of $28 million, or $1.10 per share, was reported for the third quarter, an improvement from a net loss of $36 million, or $1.40 per share, in the prior year [23][24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sales volume in the U.S. grew by 53% year-over-year in Q3, contributing to a year-to-date growth of 39% in this region [5][15] - The average selling price for the third quarter was approximately $4,200 per metric ton, reflecting a 7% decline compared to the prior year [16][17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Global steel production outside of China was approximately 206 million tons in Q3 2025, up nearly 2% year-over-year, with a global utilization rate of approximately 66% [7][8] - The U.S. steel production grew by 2% year-to-date compared to 2024, while EU steel output decreased by 4% year-to-date [8][9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on increasing sales volume and market share, improving average pricing by shifting geographic sales mix to higher price regions, and reducing costs [29][30] - GrafTech is committed to serving customers with excellence and maintaining long-term partnerships built on performance and reliability [11][30] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about potential catalysts for a rebound in the steel market, driven by infrastructure and defense spending [42][43] - The company remains bullish on the structural tailwinds supporting the shift towards electric arc furnace steelmaking, with significant new capacity planned in the U.S. [30][31] Other Important Information - The company achieved a 10% year-over-year reduction in cash cost per metric ton for Q3 and anticipates a cumulative reduction of over 30% since the end of 2023 [6][20][21] - GrafTech is actively assessing potential tariff outcomes and their influence on the steel industry and graphite electrode market [32][36] Q&A Session Summary Question: Expectations on deferred revenue benefits - Management indicated that the recent deferred revenue benefit is one-time in nature and there are no further deferred amounts on the balance sheet [39] Question: Current demand and pricing environment - Management acknowledged the oversupplied market but noted positive momentum in steel demand and production, which could support pricing improvements [41][43] Question: Supply into the battery-related materials market - Management highlighted the importance of trade cases and the need for non-Chinese supply chains to unlock the battery materials market [46][47] Question: Impact of tariffs on imports from India - Management expressed confidence that tariffs would support market share gains and negotiations for 2026 commitments [54][56] Question: Engagement in public-private partnerships - Management emphasized the importance of a healthy electrode industry to support the domestic steel supply chain and expressed confidence in GrafTech's role in this space [59][60] Question: U.S. pricing trends - Management noted that U.S. pricing has remained flat to slightly up compared to the prior quarter, with annual contracts limiting price movement [64]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - GrafTech achieved a 9% year-over-year increase in sales volume, reaching nearly 29,000 metric tons in Q3 2025 [4][14] - The company generated positive adjusted EBITDA of $13 million for the quarter, compared to a negative $6 million in the prior year [24] - Net cash from operating activities was $25 million, with adjusted free cash flow of $18 million, strengthening liquidity to $384 million as of the end of September [6][26] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sales volume in the U.S. grew by 53% year-over-year in Q3, contributing to a total year-to-date increase of 39% [5][15] - The average selling price for the third quarter was approximately $4,200 per metric ton, representing a 7% decline compared to the prior year [16][24] - Cash costs per metric ton were $3,795, reflecting a 10% year-over-year decline [18][20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Global steel production outside of China was approximately 206 million tons in Q3 2025, up nearly 2% year-over-year [7][8] - In the U.S., steel production grew by 2% year-to-date compared to 2024, while EU steel output decreased by 4% year-to-date [8][9] - World Steel projects a 1.8% growth in U.S. steel demand for 2026 and a 3.2% growth in Europe [9][10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - GrafTech aims to increase sales volume and market share while improving average pricing by shifting geographic sales mix to higher price regions [29][30] - The company is focused on disciplined, value-focused growth rather than volume for volume's sake, especially in light of challenging pricing dynamics [15][16] - Long-term, GrafTech is bullish on the shift towards electric arc furnace steelmaking, which is expected to drive demand for graphite electrodes [30][31] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about early signs of recovery in the steel market, driven by infrastructure spending and trade actions [42][43] - The company remains committed to maintaining a culture of safety and achieving zero injuries [12][13] - Management highlighted the importance of trade protection measures and their potential positive impact on the steel industry and graphite electrode demand [10][32] Other Important Information - GrafTech's liquidity position includes $178 million in cash and $107 million available under its revolving credit facility [26][27] - The company is on track for a cumulative reduction of over 30% in cash costs per metric ton since the end of 2023 [6][21] Q&A Session Summary Question: Should we expect any other kind of deferred revenue benefits? - Management indicated that the recent deferred revenue recognition was a one-time event and no further benefits are expected [39] Question: What are the current demand and price environment dynamics? - Management noted that the market is oversupplied, making it challenging to push pricing, but there are signs of positive momentum in steel demand [41][42] Question: What is the status of GrafTech's engagement in the battery-related materials market? - Management stated that while there is excess capacity, the market is still developing, and they are positioned to support raw material supply for battery production [46][47] Question: Have the tariffs on Indian material had any impact on imports? - Management expressed confidence that the tariffs would support their market position and negotiations moving forward [54] Question: Any updates on public-private partnerships? - Management highlighted the importance of a healthy electrode industry to support steelmaking and expressed confidence in GrafTech's role in the domestic supply chain [58][60] Question: Has U.S. pricing improved sequentially from the prior quarter? - Management indicated that U.S. pricing is flat to slightly up compared to the prior quarter, with annual contracts limiting price movement [64]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - GrafTech achieved a 9% year-over-year increase in sales volume, reaching nearly 29,000 metric tons, marking the highest sales volume performance in 12 quarters [6][19] - The company generated positive adjusted EBITDA of $13 million for the quarter, compared to a negative $6 million in the prior year [32] - A net loss of $28 million or $1.1 per share was reported, an improvement from a net loss of $36 million or $1.4 per share in the prior year [32] - Cash costs per metric ton decreased by 10% year-over-year to $3,795, with a full-year guidance for a 10% decline in cash COGS per metric ton [26][28] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sales volume in the U.S. grew by 53% year-over-year, contributing significantly to overall sales volume growth [7][20] - The average selling price for the third quarter was approximately $4,200 per metric ton, reflecting a 7% decline compared to the prior year [22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Global steel production outside of China was approximately 206 million tons in 2025, up nearly 2% year-over-year, with a global utilization rate of approximately 66% [11] - In the U.S., steel production grew by 2% year-to-date compared to 2024, while the EU saw a 4% decrease in steel output year-to-date [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - GrafTech is focused on increasing sales volume and market share, improving average pricing, reducing costs, and enhancing liquidity [38] - The company is strategically shifting its sales mix towards the U.S. market, which has favorable pricing dynamics [8][19] - GrafTech is committed to maintaining a disciplined approach to growth, prioritizing value over volume [21] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about potential catalysts for a rebound in the steel market, including infrastructure spending and easing financing conditions [13][39] - The company remains bullish on the long-term shift towards electric arc furnace steelmaking, which is expected to drive demand for graphite electrodes [39][40] Other Important Information - GrafTech's liquidity position improved to $384 million as of September, consisting of cash and availability under credit facilities [36] - The company is actively engaging with customers to understand their needs for the upcoming year, positioning itself for continued market share growth [15] Q&A Session Summary Question: Should we expect any other kind of deferred revenue benefits? - Management indicated that no further deferred revenue is expected, as there is nothing left on the balance sheet [49][50] Question: What do you think about the current demand and price environment? - Management noted that the market is oversupplied, making it challenging to push pricing, but there are signs of positive momentum in the steel industry [52][54] Question: Is there any way to accelerate commercial applications in the battery-related materials market? - Management stated that they are developing capabilities and have a distinct advantage with vertical integration, but the market is still developing [58][62] Question: Have you seen any material impact from the 50% tariffs on Indian material? - Management expressed confidence in continuing to grow volume in the U.S. market, viewing the tariffs as an opportunity [66][67] Question: Any updates on public-private partnerships? - Management highlighted the importance of a healthy electrode industry to support steelmaking and expressed confidence in GrafTech's role in the domestic supply chain [70][74]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - GrafTech International achieved a 9% year-over-year increase in sales volume, reaching nearly 29,000 metric tons in Q3 2025 [4][14] - The company generated positive adjusted EBITDA of $13 million for the quarter, compared to a negative $6 million in the prior year [24] - Net cash from operating activities was $25 million, with adjusted free cash flow of $18 million, strengthening liquidity to $384 million as of the end of September [6][26] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sales volume in the U.S. grew by 53% year-over-year in Q3, contributing to a cumulative sales volume growth of over 20% since the end of 2023 [5][15] - The average selling price for the third quarter was approximately $4,200 per metric ton, representing a 7% decline compared to the prior year [16][24] - Cash costs per metric ton were $3,795, reflecting a 10% year-over-year decline, with expectations for a full-year decline of approximately 10% in cash COGS per metric ton for 2025 [19][24] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Global steel production outside of China was approximately 206 million tons in Q3 2025, up nearly 2% year-over-year [7] - In the U.S., steel production grew 2% year-to-date compared to 2024, while EU steel output decreased by 4% year-to-date [8][9] - World Steel projects a 1.8% growth in U.S. steel demand for 2026 and a 3.2% growth in Europe, driven by infrastructure investment and defense spending [9][10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on increasing sales volume and market share, improving average pricing by shifting geographic sales mix to higher price regions, and reducing costs [29][30] - GrafTech is committed to serving customers with excellence and building long-term partnerships based on performance and reliability [11][30] - The company is well-positioned to capitalize on the expected growth in electric arc furnace (EAF) steel production, particularly in the U.S. and EU [30][31] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the potential recovery in the steel market, citing early signs of rebound and positive momentum in steel production and demand [7][29] - The company remains bullish on the structural tailwinds supporting the shift towards EAF steelmaking, with significant new capacity planned in the U.S. [30][31] - Management highlighted the importance of trade protection measures and their potential positive impact on the steel industry and graphite electrode demand [10][32] Other Important Information - The company reported a net loss of $28 million for the third quarter, an improvement from a net loss of $36 million in the prior year [24] - GrafTech's liquidity position includes $178 million in cash and $107 million available under its revolving credit facility, with no borrowings outstanding [26][27] - The company is committed to maintaining a culture of safety, aiming for zero injuries and strong safety performance [12] Q&A Session Summary Question: Should we expect any other kind of deferred revenue benefits? - Management indicated that no further deferred revenue is expected, as the recent recognition was a one-time event related to a long-standing receivable [39] Question: What are the current demand and price environment dynamics? - Management noted that the market is oversupplied, making it challenging to push pricing, but expressed optimism for future pricing improvements due to positive momentum in the steel industry [41][42] Question: What is the status of GrafTech's engagement in the battery-related materials market? - Management stated that while there is excess capacity, the market is still developing, and they are positioned to support partners in the battery supply chain [44][45] Question: Have the tariffs on Indian material impacted imports into the U.S.? - Management believes the tariffs present an opportunity for GrafTech, as they expect to continue gaining market share in the U.S. [47][48] Question: Any updates on public-private partnerships? - Management emphasized the importance of a healthy electrode industry to support the steel sector and expressed confidence in GrafTech's role in the domestic supply chain [51][54]