Core Insights - Nucor Corporation (NUE) reported Q4 2025 earnings of $1.64 per share, an increase from $1.22 year-over-year, but missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.82 [1] - Net sales reached $7,687 million, reflecting an 8.6% year-over-year increase, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $7,679.1 million [1] NUE's Operating Figures - Total sales tons for steel mills in Q4 were 4,602,000 tons, a 0.5% increase year-over-year but an 8% decrease from the prior quarter, missing the estimate of 4,927,000 tons [2] - Overall operating rates at steel mills were 82%, down from 85% in the previous quarter but up from 74% in Q4 2024 [2] Nucor's Segment Highlights - The Steel Mills segment earned $516 million, down from the previous quarter due to lower volumes and margin compression, particularly in sheet products [3] - The Steel Products segment reported earnings of $230 million, lower sequentially due to reduced volumes and higher average costs per ton [3] - The Raw Materials segment generated $24 million, down from the prior quarter, affected by scheduled outages at direct reduced iron facilities [3] NUE's Financial Position - Cash and cash equivalents were $2,260 million at the end of the quarter, a decrease of approximately 36.5% year-over-year [4] - Long-term debt increased to $6,909 million, up 21.6% [4] - Nucor repurchased about 0.7 million shares of its common stock during the quarter [4] Nucor's Outlook - The company expects Q1 2026 earnings to increase across all segments compared to Q4, with the Steel Mills segment anticipated to see the largest rise due to higher volumes and prices [5] - The Steel Products segment is also projected to record higher earnings mainly from increased volumes, while the Raw Materials segment is expected to see improved earnings as well [5] NUE's Price Performance - Nucor's shares have increased by 40.4% over the past year, compared to a 56.5% rise in the industry [6]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted earnings for Q4 were $1.73 per share, with full-year earnings at $7.71 per share, while EBITDA totaled $918 million for the quarter and approximately $4.2 billion for the year [7][20] - The company returned $1.2 billion to shareholders through dividends and share buybacks, representing about 70% of net earnings, and ended the year with $2.7 billion in cash [8][25] - For 2026, capital expenditures (CapEx) are estimated at approximately $2.5 billion, down from $3.4 billion in 2025 [22][23] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The steel mill segment generated $516 million in pretax earnings for Q4, down roughly 35% from the prior quarter, with shipment volumes declining 8% [21] - The steel products segment reported pretax earnings of $230 million, down from $319 million in the previous quarter, with volume declines primarily in the rebar fabrication business [21][22] - The raw material segment's pretax earnings were approximately $24 million, compared to $43 million in the prior quarter, due to scheduled outages [22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The foreign import share of the U.S. finished steel market dropped from approximately 25% last year to 16% in October and an estimated 14% in November [15][16] - Domestic steel demand is expected to be slightly up relative to 2025, with strong backlogs in the steel mill segment up nearly 40% year-over-year [18][19] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to become the world's safest steel company, achieving the lowest injury and illness rate in its history for 2025 [4] - Nucor's growth strategy focuses on generating more value for customers and shareholders, with significant investments in high-margin products and steel-adjacent businesses [9][10] - The company has invested approximately $20 billion since 2020 to enhance steelmaking capabilities and expand into downstream businesses [14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism for 2026, expecting higher consolidated earnings across all segments, driven by improved demand and fewer outages [26][27] - The company anticipates that trade policies will continue to support the domestic steel industry, with a focus on enforcing tariffs against unfairly traded imports [16][59] - Management noted that while demand remains strong in many sectors, improvements in interest rate-sensitive markets like automotive and residential construction have yet to materialize [17] Other Important Information - The company has a strong commitment to maintaining a balanced capital allocation framework, with a focus on shareholder returns and growth investments [24][25] - Nucor's board approved an increase in the quarterly dividend to $0.56 per share, marking 53 consecutive years of dividend payments [25] Q&A Session Summary Question: CapEx outlook for 2027 - Management discussed the expected CapEx for 2027, indicating that the West Virginia project will absorb the majority of CapEx, with ongoing maintenance capital estimated at around $800 million [31][38] Question: Expansionary projects beyond 2026 - Management highlighted potential growth areas in data centers, energy infrastructure, and towers and structures, emphasizing a focus on lower CapEx opportunities [40][41] Question: EBITDA expectations relative to previous guidance - Management acknowledged the previous EBITDA guidance of $6.7 billion and indicated that while the West Virginia project will contribute, it may not reach full run rate by 2027 [44][48] Question: Spare capacity and market share - Management noted that Nucor operates at about 85% utilization across sheet mills, providing opportunities to capture market share from imports [50] Question: Pricing policy in light of import parity - Management emphasized that pricing is driven by demand profiles and supply chain conditions in the U.S., with a robust economic backdrop supporting pricing strength [86]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted earnings for Q4 were $1.73 per share, with full-year earnings at $7.71 per share, while EBITDA totaled $918 million for the quarter and approximately $4.2 billion for the year [7][20] - The company returned $1.2 billion to shareholders through dividends and share buybacks, representing about 70% of net earnings, and ended the year with $2.7 billion in cash [8][25] - The steel mill segment generated pretax earnings of $516 million in Q4, down roughly 35% from the prior quarter, with shipment volumes declining 8% [21] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The steel products segment generated pretax earnings of $230 million, down from $319 million in the previous quarter, with volume declines across the portfolio [22] - The raw material segment's pretax earnings were approximately $24 million, compared to $43 million in the prior quarter, primarily due to outages at DRI facilities [22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The foreign import share of the U.S. finished steel market dropped from approximately 25% last year to 16% in October and an estimated 14% in November [15][16] - Domestic steel demand is expected to be slightly up relative to 2025, with historically strong backlogs, up nearly 40% year-over-year in the steel mill segment [18] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company has invested approximately $20 billion since 2020 to grow core steelmaking capabilities and expand into downstream businesses, while returning nearly $14 billion to shareholders [14] - The growth strategy focuses on generating more value for customers and shareholders, with significant investments in higher-margin products and steel-adjacent businesses [9][10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism for 2026, expecting strength in primary end markets such as infrastructure, data centers, and energy, while noting limited improvement in interest rate-sensitive markets like automotive and residential construction [17][18] - The company anticipates higher consolidated earnings in Q1 2026, driven by improved results across all operating segments [26] Other Important Information - The company achieved the lowest injury and illness rate in its history in 2025, marking the eighth consecutive year of improvement in safety performance [4] - Management announced a promotion for Steve Laxton to President and COO, while acknowledging the contributions of retiring COO Dave Sumoski [6] Q&A Session Questions and Answers Question: CapEx outlook for 2027 - Management indicated that CapEx for 2026 is expected to be approximately $2.5 billion, with a focus on growth-oriented investments [23][36] Question: Potential expansionary projects - Management highlighted growth opportunities in data centers, energy infrastructure, and towers and structures, emphasizing a focus on lower capital-intensive projects [40][41] Question: Domestic steel demand and capacity - Management noted that domestic mills are operating at about 85% utilization, providing opportunities to capture market share from imports [50] Question: Trade policy expectations - Management expressed support for strong enforcement of trade policies to prevent illegally dumped steel and emphasized the importance of maintaining tariffs [58][59]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted earnings for Q4 2025 were $1.73 per share, with full-year earnings at $7.71 per share, reflecting a strong performance despite challenges [6][16] - EBITDA for Q4 totaled $918 million, with approximately $4.2 billion for the full year, indicating robust profitability [6][16] - The company returned $1.2 billion to shareholders through dividends and share buybacks, representing about 70% of net earnings [7] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The steel mill segment generated pretax earnings of $516 million in Q4, down roughly 35% from the prior quarter, with an 8% decline in shipment volumes [17] - Steel products segment earnings were $230 million, down from $319 million in Q3, with volume declines attributed to seasonal trends [17][18] - The raw material segment saw pretax earnings of approximately $24 million, down from $43 million, primarily due to scheduled outages [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The foreign import share of the U.S. finished steel market dropped from approximately 25% to 16% year-over-year, indicating a positive impact from trade policies [11][12] - Domestic steel demand is expected to be slightly up relative to 2025, supported by strong backlogs, which are up nearly 40% year-over-year in the steel mill segment [14][15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on balancing long-term growth with shareholder returns, having reinvested $3.4 billion in 2025 and planning for $2.5 billion in CapEx for 2026 [7][19] - Nucor aims to enhance its product mix towards higher-margin products and expand into steel-adjacent businesses, capitalizing on strong demand trends [8][11] - The company is committed to maintaining a strong balance sheet while pursuing disciplined capital allocation and growth strategies [19][20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about 2026, expecting higher consolidated earnings across all segments due to improved demand and seasonal trends [20][21] - The company anticipates that the full impact of Section 232 tariffs will continue to lower levels of imported steel, benefiting domestic producers [12][14] - Management highlighted the importance of trade policy and its role in supporting the U.S. steel industry, advocating for continued enforcement of existing tariffs [12][56] Other Important Information - Nucor achieved the lowest injury and illness rate in its history in 2025, marking eight consecutive years of improvement in safety performance [4] - The company has a strong liquidity position with $2.7 billion in cash, providing ample support for growth objectives [7] Q&A Session Summary Question: CapEx outlook for 2027 and ongoing non-expansionary CapEx - Management indicated that CapEx for 2027 is expected to be around $800 million for maintenance, with West Virginia's project absorbing most of the 2026 CapEx [26][34] Question: Potential expansionary projects - Management noted that growth opportunities are being explored in data centers, energy infrastructure, and towers and structures, with a focus on lower CapEx projects [35][36] Question: EBITDA expectations relative to previous guidance - Management clarified that while the $6.7 billion EBITDA target remains a long-term goal, it may not be achievable in 2027 due to ramp-up complexities [41][46] Question: Spare capacity and market share - Management stated that Nucor operates at about 85% utilization across sheet mills, providing opportunities to capture market share from imports [46] Question: Pricing policy and import risks - Management emphasized that pricing is driven by demand profiles and supply chain conditions, with a robust economy supporting current pricing levels [81][85] Question: M&A strategy and focus areas - Management confirmed that future M&A efforts will focus on adjacencies with steel centricity, targeting sectors like energy and data centers for growth [76][78]

Company Overview - Nucor Corporation is a leading producer of structural steel, steel bars, steel joists, steel deck, and cold finished bars in the United States, with 123 operating facilities primarily located in North America [12] - The company also produces direct reduced iron (DRI) used in its steel mills [12] Zacks Rank and Style Scores - Nucor has a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold) and a VGM Score of A, indicating a solid overall rating [13] - The Value Style Score for Nucor is B, supported by attractive valuation metrics such as a forward P/E ratio of 15.44, which may appeal to value investors [13] - Recent upward revisions in earnings estimates by three analysts for fiscal 2026 have increased the Zacks Consensus Estimate by $0.43 to $11.51 per share [13] - Nucor has an average earnings surprise of +7.5%, suggesting a positive trend in earnings performance [13] Investment Consideration - With a solid Zacks Rank and top-tier Value and VGM Style Scores, Nucor is recommended for investors' consideration [14]

Group 1: Earnings Reports Overview - Earnings season is likened to traveling, with excitement leading to overwhelming moments when results are released [1] - The focus is on monitoring a wide range of earnings reports, not just the high-profile companies [2] Group 2: Company-Specific Insights - **Celestica Inc (CLS)**: The stock is off its record high of $363.40 but has shown a positive trend with a 100-day moving average increase. It has posted four consecutive post-earnings gains, with an implied earnings deviation of 14.7% [4][6] - **Nucor Corp (NUE)**: The company benefits from tariff dynamics and increased demand in the infrastructure sector. Its implied earnings deviation is 3.5%, which is below its two-year historical average [6] - **NextEra Energy (NEE)**: As the largest electric utility by market capitalization, it has seen muted post-earnings moves, indicating a focus on dividends rather than volatility. The implied earnings deviation is 5.0% [7] - **UnitedHealth Group (UNH)**: The first major health insurer to report, with recent price action being flat. Historical volatility has been influenced by an earnings miss in April 2025, with an implied earnings deviation of 5.3% [8][13]

FOURTH QUARTER 2025 EARNINGS CALL LEON TOPALIAN Chair and CEO STEVE LAXTON President, COO and CFO January 27, 2026 FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS Certain statements made in this presentation may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements involve risks and uncertainties. The words "anticipate," "believe," "expect," "intend," "may," "project," "will," "should," "could" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-l ...

U.S. stock futures are presenting a mixed picture this Tuesday, January 27, 2026, as investors navigate a busy week dominated by corporate earnings reports, a crucial Federal Reserve policy meeting, and fresh geopolitical developments. While technology-focused futures show upward momentum, broader market indicators suggest a more cautious approach in premarket trading.Premarket Activity and Index FuturesAs of early Tuesday, premarket trading indicates a divergence among the major U.S. indexes. Nasdaq 100 fu ...

Market Overview - U.S. stock futures showed volatility, fluctuating between gains and losses following a higher close on Monday [1] - Major benchmark indices had mixed futures, with the Dow Jones down 0.11%, S&P 500 up 0.23%, and Nasdaq 100 up 0.52% [3][9] Federal Reserve Insights - The Federal Reserve is set to begin its first two-day policy meeting of the year, with a 97.2% likelihood of maintaining current interest rates [2] Company Earnings and Performance - General Motors (NYSE: GM) is projected to report quarterly earnings of $2.20 per share on revenue of $45.80 billion, with a premarket decline of 0.48% [7] - UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH) is expected to report earnings of $2.10 per share on revenue of $113.82 billion, experiencing a premarket drop of 8.24% [7] - Nucor Corp. (NYSE: NUE) reported quarterly earnings of $1.73 per share and revenue of $7.687 billion, both missing analyst expectations, leading to a decline of 3.11% [7] - Humana Inc. (NYSE: HUM) shares fell 12.23% due to a proposal to keep payment rates for private Medicare plans flat [14] - Cloudflare Inc. (NYSE: NET) saw a rise of 7.73% amid social media excitement over an AI project [14] Analyst Insights - Professor Jeremy Siegel maintains an optimistic outlook for 2026, emphasizing a productivity revival driven by technology and a positive trajectory for the economy and markets [10][11] - Siegel notes that small-cap and value stocks are outperforming early in 2026, indicating a shift in market focus [11][12]

Core Viewpoint - U.S. stock futures are mixed, with several companies expected to report earnings that may attract investor attention today [1] Group 1: Earnings Reports - General Motors Co (NYSE:GM) is expected to report quarterly earnings of $2.20 per share on revenue of $45.80 billion, with shares falling 0.5% to $79.05 in after-hours trading [1] - W R Berkley Corp (NYSE:WRB) reported quarterly earnings of $1.13 per share, meeting analyst expectations, while sales of $3.721 billion exceeded estimates of $3.661 billion, leading to a 1.2% increase in shares to $67.71 [1] - Boeing Co (NYSE:BA) is anticipated to post a quarterly loss of 39 cents per share on revenue of $22.47 billion, with shares rising 0.1% to $248.52 in after-hours trading [1] - Nucor Corp (NYSE:NUE) reported quarterly earnings of $1.73 per share, missing the consensus estimate of $1.91 per share, and sales of $7.687 billion also fell short of the $7.868 billion estimate, resulting in a 3.1% decline in shares to $172.13 [1] - UnitedHealth Group Inc (NYSE:UNH) is expected to report quarterly earnings of $2.10 per share on revenue of $113.82 billion, with shares dropping 8.7% to $321.22 in after-hours trading [1]