Worthington Steel, Inc. (NYSE: NYSE: WS ) is still a fairly new independent company in the metals industry. It was spun off from Worthington Industries so it could focus more directly on steel processingI focus on producing objective, data-driven research, mostly about small- to mid-cap companies, as these tend to be overlooked by many investors. From time to time, though, I also look at large-cap names, just to give a fuller sense of the broader equity markets.Analyst’s Disclosure:I/we have no stock, optio ...

First Quarter Fiscal 2026 Results Overview [First Quarter Highlights](index=1&type=section&id=First%20Quarter%20Highlights) Worthington Steel reported a strong start to fiscal 2026, achieving year-over-year volume growth despite a soft market, attributed to disciplined execution and the integration of the Sitem team - Worthington Steel achieved **year-over-year volume growth** in a soft market, driven by disciplined execution and a transformation mindset[3](index=3&type=chunk) - The company welcomed the Sitem team into the Worthington Steel family during the quarter, positioning for long-term growth[3](index=3&type=chunk) [Key Financial Highlights](index=1&type=section&id=Key%20Financial%20Highlights) The first quarter of fiscal 2026 saw significant financial improvements, including a 5% increase in net sales, a 11.3% rise in operating income, and a 29.6% increase in net earnings attributable to Worthington Steel, alongside a declared quarterly dividend of $0.16 per share | Metric | 1Q 2026 | 1Q 2025 | | :------------------------------------------------ | :------ | :------ | | Volume (tons) | 928,866 | 994,093 | | Net sales (in millions) | $872.9 | $834.0 | | Operating income (in millions) | $48.3 | $43.4 | | Net earnings attributable to Worthington Steel (in millions) | $36.8 | $28.4 | | Adjusted EBIT (Non-GAAP) (in millions) | $54.9 | $39.4 | | Equity in net income of unconsolidated affiliate (in millions) | $6.4 | $1.3 | | Net earnings per diluted share attributable to Worthington Steel shareholders | $0.72 | $0.56 | | Adjusted net earnings per diluted share attributable to Worthington Steel shareholders (Non-GAAP) | $0.77 | $0.56 | - Net sales increased **5% to $872.9 million** from $834.0 million[5](index=5&type=chunk) - A quarterly dividend of **$0.16 per share** was declared, payable on December 26, 2025[5](index=5&type=chunk) Detailed Quarterly Financial Performance [Net Sales and Volume Analysis](index=2&type=section&id=Net%20Sales%20and%20Volume%20Analysis) Net sales for Q1 FY26 increased by 5% to $872.9 million, driven by higher direct volumes and selling prices, partially offset by decreased toll volumes and selling prices | Metric | 1Q 2026 | 1Q 2025 | Change (YoY) | | :----------------------- | :------ | :------ | :----------- | | Net sales (in millions) | $872.9 | $834.0 | +5% | | Direct tons sold | +6% | - | - | | Sitem Group contribution to direct tons | ~1% | - | - | | Toll volumes | -22% | - | - | | Direct selling prices | +1% | - | - | | Toll selling prices | -3% | - | - | | Direct vs. Toll mix | 63% to 37% | 56% to 44% | Shift towards direct | - The increase in net sales was primarily driven by higher direct volumes and slightly higher average direct selling prices[6](index=6&type=chunk) - Lower toll volumes were mainly due to softening demand from mill customers and the closure of a toll processing facility in Cleveland, Ohio[6](index=6&type=chunk) [Gross Margin Analysis](index=2&type=section&id=Gross%20Margin%20Analysis) Gross margin increased by $14.8 million to $115.2 million, primarily due to improved direct spreads and higher direct volumes, despite lower toll margins | Metric | 1Q 2026 | 1Q 2025 | Change (YoY) | | :-------------------------------- | :------ | :------ | :----------- | | Gross margin (in millions) | $115.2 | $100.4 | +$14.8 | | Direct spreads impact (in millions) | +$23.0 | - | - | | Inventory holding gain (in millions) | $5.6 | -$16.6 (loss) | +$22.2 (favorable change) | | Higher direct volumes impact (in millions) | +$4.6 | - | - | | Toll margins impact (in millions) | -$11.0 | - | - | - Direct spreads were favorably impacted by a **$22.2 million change** from an estimated inventory holding loss in the prior year to an estimated gain in the current quarter[7](index=7&type=chunk) [Operating Income Analysis](index=2&type=section&id=Operating%20Income%20Analysis) Operating income rose by $4.9 million to $48.3 million, driven by gross margin improvement and restructuring gains, partially offset by increased SG&A expenses | Metric | 1Q 2026 | 1Q 2025 | Change (YoY) | | :-------------------------------- | :------ | :------ | :----------- | | Operating income (in millions) | $48.3 | $43.4 | +$4.9 | | Gross margin increase impact (in millions) | +$14.8 | - | - | | Restructuring and other (income), net (in millions) | +$1.0 | - | - | | SG&A expense (in millions) | $67.9 | $57.0 | +$10.9 | | Sitem Group SG&A contribution (in millions) | $7.9 | - | - | | Acquisition completion bonus (in millions) | $4.6 | - | - | - The **$10.9 million increase in SG&A expense** was primarily due to the Sitem Group acquisition, which included a one-time bonus of $4.6 million paid to key individuals[8](index=8&type=chunk) [Net Earnings and EPS (GAAP & Adjusted)](index=2&type=section&id=Net%20Earnings%20and%20EPS%20(GAAP%20%26%20Adjusted)) Net earnings attributable to Worthington Steel increased to $36.8 million, with diluted EPS rising to $0.72, and adjusted figures also showing significant growth | Metric | 1Q 2026 | 1Q 2025 | Change (YoY) | | :------------------------------------------------ | :------ | :------ | :----------- | | Net earnings attributable to Worthington Steel (in millions) | $36.8 | $28.4 | +$8.4 | | Net earnings per diluted share (GAAP) | $0.72 | $0.56 | +$0.16 | | Adjusted net earnings attributable to Worthington Steel (in millions) | $38.9 | $28.4 | +$10.5 | | Adjusted net earnings per diluted share | $0.77 | $0.56 | +$0.21 | - Fiscal 2026 first quarter adjusted results exclude a **$0.01 per diluted share adjustment** for a deemed dividend, a **$0.04 per diluted share acquisition completion bonus expense**, and a **$0.01 per diluted share deferred tax asset adjustment**, offset by a $0.01 per diluted share gain on asset sale[10](index=10&type=chunk) Financial Position and Cash Flow [Balance Sheet Overview](index=2&type=section&id=Balance%20Sheet%20Overview) As of August 31, 2025, the Company reported $78.3 million in cash, $233.4 million in total debt, and a net debt of $155.1 million, with Sitem Group consolidated | Metric | August 31, 2025 (in millions) | | :-------------------------- | :---------------------------- | | Cash and cash equivalents | $78.3 | | Total debt | $233.4 | | Net debt | $155.1 | - The Sitem Group joint venture is consolidated within the Company's financial statements, and mezzanine equity was recorded on the consolidated balance sheet[13](index=13&type=chunk) [Cash Flow Activities](index=2&type=section&id=Cash%20Flow%20Activities) Net cash used in operating activities was $5.0 million, a shift from the prior year, with increased capital investment and negative free cash flow of $34.4 million | Metric | 1Q 2026 (in millions) | 1Q 2025 (in millions) | | :-------------------------------------- | :-------------------- | :-------------------- | | Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities | $(5.0) | $54.6 | | Investment in property, plant and equipment | $29.4 | $21.5 | | Acquisitions, net of cash acquired | $1.6 | - | | Free cash flow | $(34.4) | $33.1 | [Capital Allocation and Dividends](index=2&type=section&id=Capital%20Allocation%20and%20Dividends) The Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.16 per common share, maintaining consistency with the previous year | Metric | 1Q 2026 | 1Q 2025 | | :-------------------------- | :------ | :------ | | Cash dividends declared per share | $0.16 | $0.16 | Company Information [About Worthington Steel](index=3&type=section&id=About%20Worthington%20Steel) Worthington Steel is a market-leading metals processor providing value-added solutions across 37 facilities in seven states and 10 countries, employing approximately 6,000 people - Worthington Steel is a metals processor providing highly technical and customized solutions in carbon flat-roll steel processing, electrical steel laminations, and tailor welded solutions[16](index=16&type=chunk) - The company operates **37 facilities** in seven states and 10 countries, with approximately **6,000 employees**[17](index=17&type=chunk) - Worthington Steel's purpose is to generate positive returns by providing trusted and innovative solutions for customers, creating opportunities for employees, and strengthening communities, following a people-first philosophy and commitment to sustainability[17](index=17&type=chunk) Legal and Forward-Looking Statements [Safe Harbor Statement](index=3&type=section&id=Safe%20Harbor%20Statement) This section outlines forward-looking statements, emphasizing inherent risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from projections, advising against undue reliance - Forward-looking statements reflect current expectations and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially[18](index=18&type=chunk)[19](index=19&type=chunk) - Risk factors include conditions in financial markets, tariffs, product demand and pricing, raw material volatility, supply chain constraints, and the impact of acquisitions and economic conditions[19](index=19&type=chunk)[20](index=20&type=chunk) - The company disclaims any obligation to update forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable law[21](index=21&type=chunk) Consolidated Financial Statements [Consolidated Statements of Earnings](index=5&type=section&id=Consolidated%20Statements%20of%20Earnings) The consolidated statements of earnings show year-over-year increases in net sales, gross margin, and net earnings attributable to Worthington Steel for Q1 FY26 | | Three Months Ended August 31, | | :------------------------------------------------ | :------ | :------ | | | 2025 | 2024 | | Net sales | $872.9 | $834.0 | | Cost of goods sold | 757.7 | 733.6 | | Gross margin | 115.2 | 100.4 | | Selling, general and administrative expense | 67.9 | 57.0 | | Restructuring and other (income), net | (1.0) | - | | Operating income | 48.3 | 43.4 | | Miscellaneous income (expense), net | 0.2 | (5.9) | | Interest expense, net | (2.9) | (2.6) | | Equity in net income of unconsolidated affiliate | 6.4 | 1.3 | | Earnings before income taxes | 52.0 | 36.2 | | Income tax expense | 13.4 | 4.0 | | Net earnings | 38.6 | 32.2 | | Net earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests | 1.8 | 3.8 | | Net earnings attributable to Worthington Steel | $36.8 | $28.4 | | Deemed dividend of redeemable noncontrolling interest | (0.5) | - | | Net earnings attributable to Worthington Steel shareholders | $36.3 | $28.4 | | Basic Earnings per share attributable to Worthington Steel shareholders | $0.73 | $0.57 | | Diluted Earnings per share attributable to Worthington Steel shareholders | $0.72 | $0.56 | | Cash dividends declared per share | $0.16 | $0.16 | [Consolidated Balance Sheets](index=6&type=section&id=Consolidated%20Balance%20Sheets) The consolidated balance sheets show an increase in total assets and liabilities, with the introduction of mezzanine equity due to the Sitem Group acquisition | Assets | August 31, 2025 (in millions) | May 31, 2025 (in millions) | | :------------------------------------------------ | :---------------------------- | :--------------------------- | | Cash and cash equivalents | $78.3 | $38.0 | | Total current assets | 1,148.5 | 1,048.5 | | Investment in unconsolidated affiliate | 133.0 | 126.6 | | Goodwill | 101.7 | 79.6 | | Other intangible assets, net | 90.0 | 67.9 | | Total property, plant and equipment, net | 656.0 | 548.2 | | Total assets | $2,243.3 | $1,961.8 | | Liabilities, Mezzanine Equity, and Equity | August 31, 2025 (in millions) | May 31, 2025 (in millions) | | :------------------------------------------------ | :---------------------------- | :--------------------------- | | Total current liabilities | $693.6 | $631.5 | | Total liabilities | 912.4 | 763.9 | | Total mezzanine equity | 97.7 | - | | Total Shareholders' equity - controlling interest | 1,104.9 | 1,074.1 | | Total equity | 1,233.2 | 1,197.9 | | Total liabilities, mezzanine equity, and equity | $2,243.3 | $1,961.8 | [Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows](index=8&type=section&id=Consolidated%20Statements%20of%20Cash%20Flows) The consolidated statements of cash flows indicate a shift to net cash used in operating activities, increased investing cash usage, and an overall decrease in cash and cash equivalents | | Three Months Ended August 31, | | :------------------------------------------------ | :------ | :------ | | | 2025 | 2024 | | Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities | $(5.0) | $54.6 | | Net cash used in investing activities | $(30.9) | $(21.5) | | Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities | $21.0 | $(37.3) | | Decrease in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash | $(14.6) | $(4.2) | | Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at end of period | $78.3 | $36.0 | Non-GAAP Financial Measures / Supplemental Data [Non-GAAP Definitions and Purpose](index=9&type=section&id=Non-GAAP%20Definitions%20and%20Purpose) Worthington Steel uses non-GAAP measures like adjusted operating income and free cash flow to provide additional perspective on ongoing operations and facilitate performance evaluation - The Company reports non-GAAP financial measures including adjusted operating income, adjusted EBIT, adjusted EBITDA, free cash flow, and net debt[31](index=31&type=chunk) - These non-GAAP measures exclude items not reflective of ongoing operations, such as impairment and restructuring charges, to provide useful information for evaluating performance, planning, and compensation[32](index=32&type=chunk) [Reconciliation of Adjusted Net Earnings and EPS](index=9&type=section&id=Reconciliation%20of%20Adjusted%20Net%20Earnings%20and%20EPS) This section reconciles GAAP to adjusted net earnings and diluted EPS for Q1 FY26 and Q1 FY25, detailing specific adjustments for non-recurring items | | Three Months Ended August 31, 2025 | | :------------------------------------------------ | :------ | :------ | :------ | :------ | | | Operating Income | Earnings Before Income Taxes | Income Tax Expense (Benefit) | Net Earnings Attributable to Worthington Steel | Net Earnings per Diluted Share Attributable to Worthington Steel shareholders | | GAAP | $48.3 | $52.0 | $13.4 | $36.8 | $0.72 | | Deemed dividend of redeemable noncontrolling interest | - | - | - | - | 0.01 | | Restructuring and other (income), net | (1.0) | (1.0) | (0.1) | (0.5) | (0.01) | | Acquisition completion bonus payment | 4.6 | 4.6 | 0.6 | 1.8 | 0.04 | | Deferred tax asset adjustment | - | - | (0.8) | 0.8 | 0.01 | | Non-GAAP | $51.9 | $55.6 | $13.1 | $38.9 | $0.77 | | | Three Months Ended August 31, 2024 | | :------------------------------------------------ | :------ | :------ | :------ | :------ | | | Operating Income | Earnings Before Income Taxes | Income Tax Expense (Benefit) | Net Earnings Attributable to Worthington Steel | Net Earnings per Diluted Share Attributable to Worthington Steel shareholders | | GAAP | $43.4 | $36.2 | $4.0 | $28.4 | $0.56 | | Tax indemnification adjustment | - | - | 4.4 | - | - | | Non-GAAP | $43.4 | $40.6 | $8.4 | $28.4 | $0.56 | - Key adjustments for fiscal 2026 include a deemed dividend of redeemable noncontrolling interest, restructuring income, an acquisition completion bonus payment, and a deferred tax asset adjustment[34](index=34&type=chunk) [Reconciliation of EBIT, Adjusted EBIT, and Adjusted EBITDA](index=10&type=section&id=Reconciliation%20of%20EBIT,%20Adjusted%20EBIT,%20and%20Adjusted%20EBITDA) This section reconciles GAAP net earnings to EBIT, Adjusted EBIT, and Adjusted EBITDA for Q1 FY26 and Q1 FY25, highlighting the impact of interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, and specific non-recurring items | (In millions, except volume) | Three Months Ended August 31, | | :-------------------------------- | :------ | :------ | | | 2025 | 2024 | | Volume (tons) | 928,866 | 994,093 | | Net sales | $872.9 | $834.0 | | Net earnings attributable to Worthington Steel | $36.8 | $28.4 | | Interest expense, net | 2.9 | 2.6 | | Income tax expense | 13.4 | 4.0 | | EBIT | 53.1 | 35.0 | | Restructuring and other (income), net | (0.6) | - | | Tax indemnification adjustment | - | 4.4 | | Acquisition completion bonus payment | 2.4 | - | | Adjusted EBIT | 54.9 | 39.4 | | Depreciation and amortization | 20.3 | 16.2 | | Adjusted EBITDA | $75.2 | $55.6 | | Net earnings margin | 4.2% | 3.4% | | Adjusted EBIT margin | 6.3% | 4.7% | | Adjusted EBITDA margin | 8.6% | 6.7% | - Adjusted EBIT increased to **$54.9 million** in Q1 FY26 from $39.4 million in Q1 FY25, with Adjusted EBIT margin improving from **4.7% to 6.3%**[37](index=37&type=chunk) - Adjusted EBITDA rose to **$75.2 million** in Q1 FY26 from $55.6 million in Q1 FY25, with Adjusted EBITDA margin increasing from **6.7% to 8.6%**[37](index=37&type=chunk) [Reconciliation of Free Cash Flow](index=11&type=section&id=Reconciliation%20of%20Free%20Cash%20Flow) This section provides a reconciliation of net cash provided by operating activities to free cash flow for the past five fiscal quarters, illustrating the company's ability to generate cash beyond operational and capital expenditure needs | | First Quarter 2026 | Fourth Quarter 2025 | Third Quarter 2025 | Second Quarter 2025 | First Quarter 2025 | | :------------------------------------------ | :----------------- | :------------------ | :----------------- | :------------------ | :----------------- | | Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities | $(5.0) | $53.9 | $53.8 | $68.0 | $54.6 | | Investment in property, plant and equipment | (29.4) | (45.5) | (28.6) | (34.8) | (21.5) | | Free cash flow | $(34.4) | $8.4 | $25.2 | $33.2 | $33.1 | | Trailing 12 months free cash flow | $32.4 | - | - | - | - | - Free cash flow was **negative $34.4 million** in Q1 FY26, compared to positive $33.1 million in Q1 FY25[44](index=44&type=chunk) [Reconciliation of Net Debt](index=11&type=section&id=Reconciliation%20of%20Net%20Debt) This section reconciles total debt to net debt as of August 31, 2025, by subtracting cash and cash equivalents from the aggregate of short-term borrowings, current maturities of long-term debt, and long-term debt | | August 31, 2025 (in millions) | | :-------------------------------- | :---------------------------- | | Short-term borrowings | $160.0 | | Current maturities of long-term debt | 30.3 | | Long-term debt | 43.1 | | Total debt | $233.4 | | Less: cash and cash equivalents | (78.3) | | Net debt | $155.1 | - As of August 31, 2025, Worthington Steel reported a **net debt position of $155.1 million**[45](index=45&type=chunk)

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted EBITDA for Q1 2026 was $75.2 million, with earnings per share at $0.72, and net sales reached $872.9 million, reflecting a year-over-year increase [4][13][19] - Earnings increased from $28.4 million or $0.56 per share in the prior year quarter to $36.8 million or $0.72 per share in the current quarter [13][19] - Adjusted EBIT rose to $54.9 million, up $15.5 million from $39.4 million in the prior year quarter, primarily due to higher gross margin and increased equity earnings [16][17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Automotive shipments increased by 17% year-over-year, with shipments to the Detroit Three OEMs up nearly 13%, while production for these OEMs grew approximately 5% [21][22] - Direct sales volume constituted 63% of the mix in the current quarter, up from 56% in the prior year quarter, with direct sales volume increasing by 6% [20][21] - Toll processing volumes decreased by 22% year-over-year, attributed to market conditions and the closure of the Worthington Samuel Coil Processing facility [23][24] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Market pricing for hot rolled coil peaked at $950 per ton in March but has since decreased to approximately $800 per ton due to softer market demand [18] - The agricultural market faced challenges, with volumes down nearly 50% compared to the prior year quarter, while construction market shipments fell modestly by 3% [22] - The energy and container markets saw modest increases, contrasting with declines in the construction and heavy truck markets [22] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on electrical steel investments and margin-accretive growth, with production in Canada expected to start in early 2026 [7][8] - The expansion of the facility in Mexico will begin production soon, supplying electrical steel laminations for hybrid and electric vehicles [8] - The integration of AI into operations aims to enhance productivity and customer outcomes, with several AI-driven pilots underway [9][10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed cautious optimism regarding the automotive market, anticipating continued growth despite market uncertainties [6][32] - The company is positioned to capitalize on opportunities arising from supply chain shifts and customer complexities [6][7] - Management noted that the macro environment remains mixed, with limited visibility in several sectors expected to persist [5][6] Other Important Information - The company reported a cash flow from operations outflow of $5 million and a free cash flow outflow of $34 million, impacted by increases in working capital [24][25] - A quarterly dividend of $0.16 per share was announced, payable on December 26, 2025 [24] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide more details on the Sedum transaction and mezzanine financing structure? - The Sedum acquisition cost $60 million in cash, financed using ABL, with the minority interest classified as mezzanine equity due to foreign currency considerations [30][31] Question: What are the future opportunities in the automotive sector? - Management is cautiously optimistic about the automotive market, expecting to gain further market share and positive momentum in 2026 [32] Question: How does the company manage the impact of Section 232 tariffs on electrical steel laminations? - Management indicated minimal impact from tariffs, as customers are willing to pay, and a significant portion of the customer base is USMCA compliant [35] Question: Will the closure of the Worthington Samuel facility impact supply? - Management confirmed no anticipated disruptions in supply chains due to strong relationships with multiple mill sources [38] Question: What is the outlook for volumes in fiscal Q2? - Management expects normal seasonal trends, with Q2 typically 3% to 4% below Q1, and no significant demand triggers anticipated [42]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was $75.2 million, with earnings per share at $0.72, and net sales of $872.9 million, reflecting a year-over-year increase [4][13] - Earnings increased from $28.4 million or $0.56 per share in the prior year quarter to $36.8 million or $0.72 per share in the current quarter [13][15] - Estimated pre-tax inventory holding gains were $5.6 million compared to losses of $16.6 million in the prior year, marking a favorable swing of $22.2 million [16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Automotive shipments increased by 17% year-over-year, with the Detroit 3 OEMs experiencing a 5% production increase while Worthington's shipments rose nearly 13% [21][22] - Direct sales volume constituted 63% of the mix, up from 56% in the prior year quarter, while toll processing volumes decreased by 22% year-over-year [20][23] - The construction market saw a modest decline of 3%, while agricultural volumes dropped nearly 50% due to ongoing challenges in the agricultural equipment market [22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Current pricing for hot rolled coil is approximately $800 per ton, down from a peak of $950 per ton in March, reflecting softer market demand [18] - The market for transformers is expected to grow by up to 7% per year over the next decade, driven by the increasing need for electricity in the U.S. [7] - The company shipped approximately 929,000 tons during the quarter, down 7% compared to the prior year quarter, primarily due to decreased toll volume [19] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on electrical steel investments and margin-accretive growth, with production in Canada expected to start in early calendar year 2026 [7][8] - The expansion of the facility in Mexico will begin production soon, supplying electrical steel laminations for hybrid and electric vehicles [8] - The company is leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance operations, including demand forecasting and predictive maintenance [9][10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed cautious optimism about the automotive market for the remainder of calendar year 2025, despite ongoing market uncertainties [6][21] - The company is positioned to capitalize on opportunities arising from supply chain shifts and customer complexities [6] - Management noted that the current macro environment remains mixed, with limited visibility in several sectors expected to persist [5] Other Important Information - The company reported a cash flow from operations outflow of $5 million and a free cash flow outflow of $34 million, impacted by increases in working capital [24] - A quarterly dividend of $0.16 per share was announced, payable on December 26, 2025 [24] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide more details on the Sedum transaction and mezzanine financing structure? - The Sedum purchase price was composed of $60 million in cash and the contribution of the NOG Gold facility, financed using ABL [31] Question: What are the future opportunities in the automotive sector? - Management is cautiously optimistic, projecting a unit build rate of $15 million and expecting further market share gains [33] Question: How does the company manage the impact of Section 232 tariffs on electrical steel laminations? - Management indicated minimal impact from tariffs, as customers are willing to pay them, and a significant portion of the customer base is USMCA compliant [36] Question: Will the closure of the Worthington Samuel facility impact toll processing volumes? - The majority of the toll volume decline is attributed to market conditions and the facility closure, with some reductions due to customer program changes [43] Question: What is the expectation for direct sales volume moving forward? - Direct sales volume is expected to remain in the 60%-65% range, with toll processing at 35%-40% [45]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted EBITDA for the first quarter was $75.2 million, with earnings per share at $0.72, and net sales reached $872.9 million, reflecting a year-over-year increase [4][13] - Earnings increased from $28.4 million or $0.56 per share in the prior year quarter to $36.8 million or $0.72 per share in the current quarter [13][15] - Estimated pre-tax inventory holding gains were $5.6 million compared to losses of $16.6 million in the prior year, marking a favorable swing of $22.2 million [16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Automotive shipments increased by 17% year-over-year, with shipments to the Detroit Three OEMs growing nearly 13% against a 5% production increase [21][22] - Direct sales volume constituted 63% of the mix, up from 56% in the prior year quarter, while toll processing volumes decreased by 22% year-over-year [20][23] - The construction market saw a modest decline of 3%, while agricultural volumes dropped nearly 50% due to ongoing challenges in the agricultural equipment market [22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Market pricing for hot rolled coil peaked at $950 per ton in March but has since decreased to approximately $800 per ton due to softer market demand [18] - The company shipped approximately 929,000 tons during the quarter, down 7% compared to the prior year quarter, primarily due to decreased toll volume [19][20] - The energy and container markets experienced modest increases, while the heavy truck market saw a 7% decline [22] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on electrical steel investments and margin-accretive growth, with production in Canada expected to start in early calendar year 2026 [7][8] - The expansion of the facility in Mexico is set to begin production soon, supporting the electrification of transportation [8] - The company is leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance operations and back-office functions, aiming for improved efficiency and cost savings [9][10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed cautious optimism despite market uncertainties, emphasizing the importance of agility and collaboration in navigating challenges [5][6] - The company anticipates continued growth in the automotive sector and is preparing for potential market recovery in 2026 [32] - Management highlighted a disciplined approach to capital allocation and a commitment to generating strong free cash flow [11][24] Other Important Information - The company reported a cash outflow of $5 million from operations and a free cash flow outflow of $34 million, impacted by increases in working capital [24][25] - A quarterly dividend of $0.16 per share was announced, payable on December 26, 2025 [24] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide more details on the Sedum transaction and mezzanine financing structure? - The Sedum acquisition was financed with $60 million in cash and the contribution of a facility, with the minority interest classified as mezzanine equity due to its unique structure [30][31] Question: What are the future opportunities in the automotive sector? - Management remains cautiously optimistic about the automotive market, expecting to gain further market share and positive momentum in 2026 [32] Question: How does the company manage the impact of Section 232 tariffs on electrical steel laminations? - The company has seen little impact from the tariffs, as customers are willing to pay them, and a significant portion of the customer base is USMCA compliant [35] Question: Will the closure of the Worthington Samuel facility impact toll processing volumes? - The decline in toll processing volumes is primarily due to market conditions and the closure of the facility, with some additional impacts from customer decisions [42] Question: What is the expectation for direct sales volume moving forward? - Direct sales volume is expected to remain in the 60% to 65% range, with toll processing making up 35% to 40% [44]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted EBITDA for Q1 2026 was $75.2 million, with earnings per share at $0.72, and net sales of $872.9 million, reflecting a year-over-year increase in performance [4][13] - Earnings increased from $28.4 million or $0.56 per share in the prior year quarter to $36.8 million or $0.72 per share in the current quarter [13][16] - Adjusted EBIT rose to $54.9 million, up $15.5 million from $39.4 million in the prior year quarter, primarily due to higher gross margin and increased equity earnings [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Automotive shipments increased by 17% year-over-year, with the Detroit Three OEMs experiencing a 5% production increase while Worthington's shipments rose nearly 13% [21][22] - Direct sales volume constituted 63% of the mix in the current quarter, up from 56% in the prior year quarter, with a 6% increase in direct sales volume compared to the previous year [20][21] - Toll processing volumes decreased by 22% year-over-year, attributed to softer market conditions and the closure of the Worthington Samuel Coil Processing facility [23][40] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Market pricing for hot rolled coil peaked at $950 per ton in March but has since declined to approximately $800 per ton due to softer demand [19] - The agricultural market faced challenges, with volumes down nearly 50% compared to the prior year quarter, while construction market shipments fell modestly by 3% [22] - The energy and container markets saw modest increases, contrasting with declines in other sectors [22] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on electrical steel investments and margin-accretive growth, with production in Canada expected to start in early 2026 [8] - Expansion of the facility in Mexico is set to begin production soon, aimed at supplying electrical steel laminations for hybrid and electric vehicles [9] - The integration of AI into operations is a key part of the company's transformation strategy, aimed at improving efficiency and productivity [10][11] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed cautious optimism about the automotive market for the remainder of 2025, despite ongoing market uncertainties [6][21] - The company is positioned to capitalize on opportunities arising from supply chain shifts and customer complexities [6] - Management anticipates potential inventory holding losses in Q2 2026, estimating losses between $5 million to $10 million [20] Other Important Information - The company reported a cash outflow of $5 million from operations and a free cash flow outflow of $34 million, impacted by increases in working capital [24] - A quarterly dividend of $0.16 per share was announced, payable on December 26, 2025 [24] - The company ended the quarter with $78 million in cash and $233 million in outstanding debt, resulting in net debt of $155 million [25] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide more details on the Sedum transaction and mezzanine financing structure? - The Sedum acquisition cost $60 million in cash, financed through ABL, with a unique mezzanine equity structure due to foreign currency involvement [28][30] Question: What is the outlook for automotive and opportunities for market share in 2026? - Management is cautiously optimistic, projecting a unit build rate of $15 million and identifying further opportunities for market share growth [31] Question: How does the company manage the impact of Section 232 tariffs on electrical steel laminations? - The company has seen little impact from tariffs, with strong demand and a significant portion of customers being USMCA compliant [33] Question: Will the closure of Worthington Samuel affect toll processing volumes? - The decline in toll processing volumes is primarily due to market conditions and the closure of the facility, with some customer program changes also contributing [40] Question: What are the expectations for volumes in fiscal Q2? - Normal seasonality is expected, with Q2 typically being 3% to 4% below Q1, and no significant demand triggers anticipated [42]

Worthington Steel Investor Presentation | September 2025 Safe Harbor Statement Selected statements contained in this release constitute "forward-looking statements," as that term is used in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the "Act"). The Company wishes to take advantage of the safe harbor provisions included in the Act. Forward-looking statements reflect the Company's current expectations, estimates or projections concerning future results or events. These statements are often identifi ...

Worthington Steel, Inc. (WS) came out with quarterly earnings of $0.77 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.72 per share. This compares to earnings of $0.56 per share a year ago. These figures are adjusted for non-recurring items.This quarterly report represents an earnings surprise of +6.94%. A quarter ago, it was expected that this steel processing company would post earnings of $0.83 per share when it actually produced earnings of $1.05, delivering a surprise of +26.51%.Over the last fou ...

Core Insights - Worthington Steel, Inc. reported its financial results for the first quarter of fiscal 2026, which ended on August 31, 2025 [1] Financial Performance - The company disclosed its earnings and financial metrics for the specified quarter [1]

Earnings Report - Worthington Steel, Inc. is set to release its first-quarter earnings results on September 24, with analysts expecting earnings of 72 cents per share, an increase from 56 cents per share in the same period last year [1] - The company projects quarterly revenue of $736 million, down from $834 million reported a year earlier [1] Recent Performance - On June 25, Worthington Steel reported fourth-quarter earnings of $1.05 per share, surpassing the analyst consensus estimate of 82 cents per share [2] - Following this report, Worthington Steel shares increased by 0.3%, closing at $33.68 [2] Analyst Ratings - Keybanc analyst Matthew Gilmor maintained an Overweight rating and raised the price target from $34 to $36 on September 16, 2025, with an accuracy rate of 68% [7] - Seaport Global analyst Martin Englert initiated coverage on the stock with a Neutral rating on March 11, 2024, having an accuracy rate of 49% [7]