Quaker(KWR) - 2024 Q4 - Annual Report

Financial Performance - Quaker Houghton reported net sales of $1,839.7 million in 2024, a decrease of 6% from$ 1,953.3 million in 2023, primarily due to a 4% decrease in selling price and product mix, a 2% decrease in sales volumes, and a 1% unfavorable impact from foreign currency translation[141]. - The company generated net income of $116.6 million or$ 6.51 per diluted share in 2024, compared to $112.7 million or$ 6.26 per diluted share in 2023, reflecting lower interest expenses and foreign exchange losses[142]. - Adjusted EBITDA for 2024 was $310.9 million, a decrease of 3% from$ 320.4 million in 2023, primarily due to lower net sales[142]. - Net cash flows from operating activities were $204.6 million in 2024, down from$ 279.0 million in 2023, driven by reduced cash inflow from working capital[144]. - The Americas segment accounted for approximately 48% of consolidated net sales in 2024, with net sales of $882.1 million, a decrease of$ 95.0 million or 10% compared to 2023[211]. Acquisitions and Strategic Initiatives - The Company acquired Chemical Solutions & Innovations (CSI) for approximately $3.9 million in February 2025, enhancing its position in South Africa[21]. - In July 2024, Quaker Houghton acquired the Sutai Group for approximately$ 16.2 million, strengthening its technology portfolio in the Asia/Pacific region[22]. - The acquisition of I.K.V. Tribologie IKVT for $35.2 million in February 2024 bolstered the Company's position in high-performance lubricants and greases[23]. - Strategic acquisitions are part of the company's business strategy, but successful integration and realization of synergies are critical to avoid adverse financial impacts[56]. Research and Development - Research and development expenses for 2024 were$ 57.3 million, an increase from $50.3 million in 2023 and$ 46.0 million in 2022[20]. - The company is committed to continuous product development to meet customer demands for higher performance, but faces risks if competitors introduce superior products[53]. Employee and Operational Insights - The Company had approximately 4,400 full-time employees globally as of December 31, 2024, with around 3,400 employed by non-U.S. subsidiaries[29]. - The company emphasizes the importance of safety culture, implementing ten "lifesaving" rules and several "Live Safe" initiatives to prevent serious injuries[40]. Financial Obligations and Liquidity - The Company had total net debt of $519.4 million as of December 31, 2024, consisting of total borrowings of$ 708.3 million less cash and cash equivalents of $188.9 million[162]. - The weighted average variable interest rate on outstanding borrowings was approximately 6.1% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, with an interest rate of approximately 5.2% on outstanding borrowings as of December 31, 2024[163]. - The Company believes its existing cash and anticipated cash flows will be sufficient to support its operating requirements and fund business objectives for at least the next twelve months[171]. Market and Economic Risks - The company faces significant risks from demand fluctuations in the steel, automotive, aerospace, and industrial equipment industries, which are cyclical[49]. - The company is exposed to economic uncertainties, including inflation, supply chain constraints, and potential downturns in customer industries[45]. - Rising interest rates could increase debt service obligations and negatively impact customer demand for the company's products[70]. - The company is subject to risks from currency fluctuations, particularly between the U.S. dollar and major currencies like the Euro and British pound, affecting profitability[73]. Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Considerations - The company is subject to increasing scrutiny regarding its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices, which may impose additional costs and risks[106]. - The company has adopted certain sustainability practices as highlighted in its annual Sustainability Report, which is available on its corporate website[107]. - The company may face reputational challenges if its ESG procedures do not meet stakeholder expectations, potentially harming its financial performance[108]. Legal and Regulatory Risks - The company may experience adverse effects from legislative and regulatory changes, tariffs, and geopolitical tensions, particularly related to Russia and Belarus[44]. - Compliance with complex global regulations is essential, as failure could result in increased costs and operational restrictions[83]. - Ongoing legal proceedings, including environmental matters, could adversely impact liquidity and reputation in the market[82]. Shareholder Returns - The company declared cash dividends totaling$ 1.88 per share, amounting to $33.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to$ 1.78 per share or $32.0 million for 2023[132]. - The company has authorized a new share repurchase program of up to$ 150 million, effective immediately with no expiration date[64].