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Harley-Davidson(HOG)

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Harley-Davidson(HOG) - 2025 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript

2025-05-01 13:00

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Harley-Davidson's consolidated revenue in Q1 2025 decreased by 23% compared to the previous year, with operating income down 51% at HDMC, partially offset by a 19% increase in operating income at HDFS [18][20][26] - The consolidated operating income margin for Q1 was 12.1%, down from 15.2% in the same quarter last year, primarily due to lower volume and efforts to reduce dealer inventory [18][22] - Earnings per share for Q1 was reported at $1.07 [18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - HDMC revenue decreased by 27% in Q1, driven by a 33% decline in motorcycle shipments, totaling 39,000 units compared to 58,000 units in the prior year [20][21] - HDFS revenue was $245 million, a decrease of 2%, while operating income increased by 19% to $64 million due to lower provisions for credit losses [26][27] - LiveWire segment reported an operating loss of $20 million, which was an improvement from a $29 million loss in the prior year [29] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Global retail sales were down 21% in Q1, with a 24% decline in North America, attributed to low consumer confidence [4][5] - EMEA region saw a retail decline of just 2%, while APAC experienced a 28% decline, primarily due to softness in China and Japan [6] - LATAM reported a 6% decline in retail sales year over year [6] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on a selective expansion strategy, planning to introduce new entry-level products and an iconic classic motorcycle starting next year [9][88] - A significant marketing development fund is being allocated to support dealer networks closer to the riding season [5][14] - The company is evaluating its investment in LiveWire due to challenges in the EV segment and plans to drive cost savings to achieve a sustainable business model [10][11][96] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed concerns over the uncertain macroeconomic environment and its impact on consumer confidence, leading to the withdrawal of the 2025 financial guidance [11][31] - There is cautious optimism regarding potential trade deals that may mitigate tariff impacts [12][56] - Sequential improvement in retail sales was noted from February to April, indicating a slight recovery in consumer demand [64][65] Other Important Information - The company achieved $142 million in operating cash flow, an increase of $38 million from the prior year, and ended Q1 with $1.9 billion in cash and cash equivalents [30][31] - Harley-Davidson repurchased 3.4 million shares for $87 million in Q1 as part of its capital allocation strategy [30][33] Q&A Session Summary Question: What might the economics of a long-term strategic partnership look like for Harley Davidson? - Management emphasized the importance of demonstrating the premium value of HDFS and maintaining long-term funding optionality [36][38] Question: Is it fair to say that the strategic nature of HDFS is being reconsidered due to stock valuation? - Management confirmed that while HDFS remains strategic, they are exploring options to ensure its value is recognized in the market [44][46] Question: Can you provide insight into the tariff impacts and anti-American sentiment? - Management clarified that while tariffs pose challenges, the majority of their products are manufactured in the U.S., and they have a U.S.-centric sourcing strategy [50][54] Question: How has the retail environment changed in April compared to previous months? - Management reported sequential improvement in retail sales from February to April, indicating a positive trend [64][65] Question: What led to the decision to bring back entry-level bikes? - The company believes it can now offer competitive entry-level models that are profitable, following significant investments in core business areas [88][89]