Donaldson(DCI) - 2024 Q2 - Quarterly Report

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION Item 1. Financial Statements This section presents the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements, including earnings, comprehensive income, balance sheets, cash flows, and equity, with detailed notes on accounting policies and financial components Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings The company reported increased net earnings and diluted EPS for both the three and six months ended January 31, 2024, compared to the prior year, driven by higher net sales and improved gross profit Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings (in millions) | Metric | Three Months Ended Jan 31, 2024 (in millions) | Three Months Ended Jan 31, 2023 (in millions) | Six Months Ended Jan 31, 2024 (in millions) | Six Months Ended Jan 31, 2023 (in millions) | | :----------------------------- | :-------------------------------------------- | :-------------------------------------------- | :------------------------------------------- | :------------------------------------------- | | Net sales | $876.7 | $828.3 | $1,723.0 | $1,675.6 | | Gross profit | $308.6 | $284.4 | $609.5 | $571.6 | | Operating income | $129.7 | $116.3 | $254.3 | $235.6 | | Net earnings | $98.7 | $86.0 | $190.8 | $173.2 | | Net earnings per share – diluted | $0.81 | $0.70 | $1.56 | $1.40 | Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income Comprehensive income decreased for both the three and six months ended January 31, 2024, primarily due to a significant reduction in foreign currency translation gains compared to the prior year Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (in millions) | Metric | Three Months Ended Jan 31, 2024 (in millions) | Three Months Ended Jan 31, 2023 (in millions) | Six Months Ended Jan 31, 2024 (in millions) | Six Months Ended Jan 31, 2023 (in millions) | | :-------------------------------- | :-------------------------------------------- | :-------------------------------------------- | :------------------------------------------- | :------------------------------------------- | | Net earnings | $98.7 | $86.0 | $190.8 | $173.2 | | Foreign currency translation gain (loss) | $20.9 | $65.3 | $(16.7) | $25.2 | | Total derivatives | $(1.6) | $(4.9) | $(0.8) | $(0.3) | | Net other comprehensive income (loss) | $19.1 | $59.7 | $(16.7) | $25.4 | | Comprehensive income | $117.8 | $145.7 | $174.1 | $198.6 | Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets Total assets slightly increased from July 31, 2023, to January 31, 2024, with a notable increase in current liabilities and a decrease in long-term debt, while total stockholders' equity also grew Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (in millions) | Metric | January 31, 2024 (in millions) | July 31, 2023 (in millions) | | :---------------------------------- | :----------------------------- | :---------------------------- | | Total current assets | $1,317.2 | $1,286.0 | | Total assets | $2,783.5 | $2,770.5 | | Total current liabilities | $893.5 | $756.4 | | Long-term debt | $352.0 | $496.6 | | Total liabilities | $1,407.7 | $1,449.8 | | Total stockholders' equity | $1,375.8 | $1,320.7 | Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Net cash provided by operating activities increased slightly, while cash used in investing and financing activities decreased, leading to an overall increase in cash and cash equivalents Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (in millions) | Metric | Six Months Ended Jan 31, 2024 (in millions) | Six Months Ended Jan 31, 2023 (in millions) | | :------------------------------------ | :------------------------------------------ | :------------------------------------------ | | Net cash provided by operating activities | $225.0 | $220.5 | | Net cash used in investing activities | $(44.5) | $(57.6) | | Net cash used in financing activities | $(171.7) | $(176.8) | | Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents | $6.7 | $(13.9) | | Cash and cash equivalents, end of period | $193.8 | $179.4 | Condensed Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity Stockholders' equity increased from July 31, 2023, to January 31, 2024, primarily due to net earnings, partially offset by treasury stock acquisitions and dividends declared Condensed Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity (in millions) | Metric | As of July 31, 2023 (in millions) | As of January 31, 2024 (in millions) | | :-------------------------------- | :-------------------------------- | :----------------------------------- | | Total Stockholders' Equity | $1,320.7 | $1,375.8 | | Net earnings | - | $190.8 | | Other comprehensive loss | - | $(16.7) | | Treasury stock acquired | - | $(87.1) | | Dividends declared | - | $(60.1) | Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) This section provides detailed disclosures and explanations for the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements, covering accounting policies, acquisitions, revenue, and various financial components Note 1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies The financial statements are prepared in accordance with GAAP and Form 10-Q, with no material impact from recently adopted or unadopted ASUs - The Company adopted ASU 2021-08, Business Combinations (Topic 805), Accounting for Contract Assets and Contract Liabilities from Contracts with Customers, in the first quarter of fiscal 2024, with no impact on its Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements24 - New ASUs on Income Taxes (2023-09), Segment Reporting (2023-07), Disclosure Improvements (2023-06), and Fair Value Measurement (2022-03) are not expected to have a material impact on the Company's financial statements upon adoption26272829 Note 2. Acquisitions In fiscal 2023, the Company acquired Univercells Technologies for $147.2 million and Isolere Bio, Inc. for $62.4 million, with no acquisitions in fiscal 2024 - In fiscal 2023, Donaldson acquired Univercells Technologies (UTEC) for $147.2 million and Isolere Bio, Inc. (Isolere) for $62.4 million, both integrated into the Life Sciences segment3031 - The purchase price allocation for UTEC is preliminary, with $95.8 million assigned to goodwill and $52.5 million to intangible assets. Isolere's purchase accounting was finalized in Q1 fiscal 20243031 - Net sales from UTEC and Isolere were immaterial to the Consolidated Statements of Earnings for the three and six months ended January 31, 20243031 Acquisition Components (in millions) | Acquisition Component | 2023 (in millions) | | :-------------------- | :----------------- | | Intangible assets acquired | $97.0 | | Tangible assets, net | $10.4 | | Goodwill | $124.0 | | Aggregate purchase price | $231.4 | | Acquisitions, net of cash acquired | $209.6 | Note 3. Revenue Net sales increased across all geographic regions for both periods, with the U.S. and Canada being the largest contributor Net Sales by Region (in millions) | Region | Three Months Ended Jan 31, 2024 (in millions) | Three Months Ended Jan 31, 2023 (in millions) | Six Months Ended Jan 31, 2024 (in millions) | Six Months Ended Jan 31, 2023 (in millions) | | :-------------------- | :-------------------------------------------- | :-------------------------------------------- | :------------------------------------------- | :------------------------------------------- | | U.S. and Canada | $376.9 | $346.4 | $758.4 | $721.7 | | EMEA | $251.6 | $252.1 | $485.9 | $478.8 | | APAC | $151.0 | $142.4 | $291.1 | $293.0 | | LATAM | $97.2 | $87.4 | $187.6 | $182.1 | | Total net sales | $876.7 | $828.3 | $1,723.0 | $1,675.6 | Contract Assets and Liabilities (in millions) | Metric | January 31, 2024 (in millions) | July 31, 2023 (in millions) | | :-------------------- | :----------------------------- | :---------------------------- | | Contract assets | $11.2 | $13.3 | | Contract liabilities | $29.7 | $25.3 | Note 4. Inventories, Net Total inventories, net, increased to $433.4 million as of January 31, 2024, with increases across all components Inventories, Net (in millions) | Inventory Component | January 31, 2024 (in millions) | July 31, 2023 (in millions) | | :------------------ | :----------------------------- | :---------------------------- | | Raw materials | $160.9 | $155.1 | | Work in process | $57.3 | $50.9 | | Finished products | $215.2 | $212.1 | | Total inventories, net | $433.4 | $418.1 | Note 5. Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Net property, plant and equipment slightly decreased to $647.0 million due to higher accumulated depreciation and lower construction in progress Property, Plant and Equipment, Net (in millions) | Asset Component | January 31, 2024 (in millions) | July 31, 2023 (in millions) | | :---------------------- | :----------------------------- | :---------------------------- | | Land | $29.2 | $29.3 | | Buildings | $444.8 | $430.8 | | Machinery and equipment | $1,023.7 | $989.0 | | Computer software | $142.7 | $142.0 | | Construction in progress | $81.5 | $107.7 | | Less accumulated depreciation | $(1,074.9) | $(1,045.9) | | Total property, plant and equipment, net | $647.0 | $652.9 | Note 6. Goodwill and Intangible Assets Goodwill decreased slightly to $475.9 million, and intangible assets, net, decreased to $179.4 million, primarily due to amortization and foreign currency translation Goodwill by Segment (in millions) | Segment | Goodwill as of July 31, 2023 (in millions) | Goodwill as of January 31, 2024 (in millions) | | :---------------- | :--------------------------------------- | :------------------------------------------ | | Mobile Solutions | $25.5 | $25.4 | | Industrial Solutions | $289.1 | $287.3 | | Life Sciences | $166.5 | $163.2 | | Total | $481.1 | $475.9 | Intangible Assets, Net (in millions) | Intangible Asset Class | Net as of January 31, 2024 (in millions) | Net as of July 31, 2023 (in millions) | | :--------------------- | :--------------------------------------- | :------------------------------------ | | Customer relationships | $39.5 | $42.2 | | Patents | $26.4 | $27.1 | | Trademarks | $11.3 | $12.0 | | Technology | $99.6 | $103.4 | | Non-compete agreements | $2.6 | $3.4 | | Total intangible assets | $179.4 | $188.1 | - Intangible asset amortization expense increased to $3.8 million for the three months and $7.8 million for the six months ended January 31, 2024, from $2.5 million and $5.1 million, respectively, in the prior year43 Note 7. Long-Term Debt The Company had $40.0 million outstanding on its $500.0 million revolving credit facility and was in compliance with all financial covenants - As of January 31, 2024, $40.0 million was outstanding on the Company's $500.0 million unsecured revolving credit facility, with $452.5 million available44 - The Company was in compliance with all financial covenants related to its debt agreements as of January 31, 202444 Note 8. Income Taxes Gross unrecognized tax benefits were $15.8 million, with a potential $4.0 million decrease in uncertain tax positions within 12 months - Gross unrecognized tax benefits were $15.8 million and accrued interest and penalties were $2.2 million as of January 31, 202446 - The Company estimates a potential decrease of up to $4.0 million in uncertain tax positions within the next 12 months due to lapses in statutes of limitation46 Note 9. Earnings Per Share Basic and diluted net EPS increased for both periods, reflecting higher net earnings and slightly fewer weighted average shares outstanding Earnings Per Share Data (in millions, except per share data) | Metric | Three Months Ended Jan 31, 2024 | Three Months Ended Jan 31, 2023 | Six Months Ended Jan 31, 2024 | Six Months Ended Jan 31, 2023 | | :---------------------------------- | :------------------------------ | :------------------------------ | :---------------------------- | :---------------------------- | | Net earnings (in millions) | $98.7 | $86.0 | $190.8 | $173.2 | | Weighted average common shares – basic (in millions) | 120.5 | 121.7 | 120.7 | 122.2 | | Weighted average common shares – diluted (in millions) | 122.1 | 123.3 | 122.4 | 123.7 | | Net EPS – basic | $0.82 | $0.71 | $1.58 | $1.42 | | Net EPS – diluted | $0.81 | $0.70 | $1.56 | $1.40 | Note 10. Stockholders' Equity The Board authorized a new stock repurchase plan for up to 12.0 million shares, with fewer shares repurchased but higher dividends paid - In November 2023, the Board authorized the repurchase of up to 12.0 million shares, replacing the previous plan. As of January 31, 2024, 11.8 million shares remained authorized for repurchase49 Treasury Stock Repurchases (in millions, except shares) | Metric | Six Months Ended Jan 31, 2024 (in millions) | Six Months Ended Jan 31, 2023 (in millions) | | :-------------------- | :------------------------------------------ | :------------------------------------------ | | Shares repurchased | 1.4 | 2.1 | | Cost of repurchases | $87.1 | $115.2 | Dividends Paid Per Share | Metric | Three Months Ended Jan 31, 2024 | Three Months Ended Jan 31, 2023 | Six Months Ended Jan 31, 2024 | Six Months Ended Jan 31, 2023 | | :-------------------- | :------------------------------ | :------------------------------ | :---------------------------- | :---------------------------- | | Dividends paid per share | $0.25 | $0.23 | $0.50 | $0.46 | Note 11. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Accumulated other comprehensive loss increased to $(189.2) million due to foreign currency translation losses, partially offset by gains Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (3 Months Ended Jan 31, 2024, in millions) | Component | Balance as of Oct 31, 2023 (in millions) | Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax (3 months) | Balance as of Jan 31, 2024 (in millions) | | :-------------------------- | :--------------------------------------- | :------------------------------------------------------- | :--------------------------------------- | | Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment | $(147.2) | $20.9 | $(126.3) | | Pension Benefits | $(66.2) | $(0.2) | $(66.4) | | Derivative Financial Instruments | $5.1 | $(1.6) | $3.5 | | Total | $(208.3) | $19.1 | $(189.2) | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (6 Months Ended Jan 31, 2024, in millions) | Component | Balance as of July 31, 2023 (in millions) | Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax (6 months) | Balance as of Jan 31, 2024 (in millions) | | :-------------------------- | :---------------------------------------- | :------------------------------------------------------- | :--------------------------------------- | | Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment | $(109.6) | $(16.7) | $(126.3) | | Pension Benefits | $(67.2) | $0.8 | $(66.4) | | Derivative Financial Instruments | $4.3 | $(0.8) | $3.5 | | Total | $(172.5) | $(16.7) | $(189.2) | Note 12. Stock-Based Compensation Stock-based compensation expense increased for both options and performance-based awards, with higher weighted average fair value for options granted Stock-Based Compensation Expense (in millions) | Metric | Three Months Ended Jan 31, 2024 (in millions) | Three Months Ended Jan 31, 2023 (in millions) | Six Months Ended Jan 31, 2024 (in millions) | Six Months Ended Jan 31, 2023 (in millions) | | :------------------------------------ | :-------------------------------------------- | :-------------------------------------------- | :------------------------------------------- | :------------------------------------------- | | Pretax stock-based compensation expense (options) | $2.0 | $1.8 | $10.5 | $9.3 | | Pretax performance-based awards expense | $1.5 | $1.7 | $3.1 | $3.5 | - The weighted average fair value for options granted increased to $18.98 per share during the six months ended January 31, 2024, from $15.62 per share in the prior year58 Stock-Based Award Activity (as of Jan 31, 2024) | Stock-Based Award Activity | Options Outstanding (Jan 31, 2024) | Performance Shares Outstanding (Jan 31, 2024) | | :------------------------- | :--------------------------------- | :-------------------------------------------- | | Balance outstanding as of July 31, 2023 | 6,777,407 | 194,761 | | Granted | 804,398 | 114,800 | | Exercised/Vested | (559,697) | — | | Expired/Forfeited | (29,565) | — | | Balance outstanding as of January 31, 2024 | 6,992,543 | 309,561 | Note 13. Employee Benefit Plans Net periodic pension costs increased to $0.3 million for three months and $0.5 million for six months due to higher interest costs Net Periodic Pension Costs (in millions) | Metric | Three Months Ended Jan 31, 2024 (in millions) | Three Months Ended Jan 31, 2023 (in millions) | Six Months Ended Jan 31, 2024 (in millions) | Six Months Ended Jan 31, 2023 (in millions) | | :-------------------------- | :-------------------------------------------- | :-------------------------------------------- | :------------------------------------------- | :------------------------------------------- | | Service cost | $1.2 | $1.6 | $2.4 | $3.2 | | Interest cost | $5.1 | $4.2 | $10.2 | $8.3 | | Expected return on assets | $(6.4) | $(6.4) | $(12.9) | $(12.7) | | Actuarial loss amortization | $0.4 | $0.5 | $0.8 | $1.1 | | Net periodic pension costs | $0.3 | $0.0 | $0.5 | $0.0 | Note 14. Derivative Instruments and Hedging The Company uses foreign currency forward contracts and net investment hedges to manage risk, with €80 million in net investment hedges - The Company uses foreign currency forward contracts and net investment hedges to manage foreign currency risk, not for trading or speculative purposes6466 Derivative Notional Amounts (in millions) | Derivative Type | Notional Amount as of Jan 31, 2024 (in millions) | Notional Amount as of July 31, 2023 (in millions) | | :------------------------------------------------ | :----------------------------------------------- | :------------------------------------------------ | | Foreign currency forward contracts (designated as hedges) | $53.0 | $84.9 | | Foreign currency forward contracts (not designated as hedges) | $148.0 | $147.5 | | Net investment hedges (Euro equivalent) | €80.0 ($88.8) | €80.0 ($88.8) | Note 15. Fair Value Measurements Fair value measurements are classified into Level 1 for short-term instruments, Level 2 for debt and derivatives, and Level 3 for equity investments and contingent consideration - Short-term financial instruments (cash, receivables, short-term borrowings, payables) are classified as Level 1 fair value measurements74 - Long-term debt and derivative contracts (foreign currency forward contracts, net investment hedges) are classified as Level 2 fair value measurements, using observable market parameters7577 - Equity method investments and contingent consideration liabilities are classified as Level 3 fair value measurements, relying on significant unobservable inputs7680 Fair Value of Derivative Instruments (in millions) | Derivative Type | Assets (Jan 31, 2024, in millions) | Assets (July 31, 2023, in millions) | Liabilities (Jan 31, 2024, in millions) | Liabilities (July 31, 2023, in millions) | | :------------------------------------------------ | :--------------------------------- | :---------------------------------- | :-------------------------------------- | :--------------------------------------- | | Designated as hedging instruments | $4.2 | $4.2 | $0.9 | $0.1 | | Not designated as hedging instruments | $0.6 | $0.7 | $0.3 | $1.4 | | Total | $4.8 | $4.9 | $1.2 | $1.5 | Contingent Consideration Liability (in millions) | Metric | January 31, 2024 (in millions) | July 31, 2023 (in millions) | | :-------------------------------- | :----------------------------- | :---------------------------- | | Fair value of contingent consideration liability | $26.0 | $25.0 | | Maximum potential payout of contingent consideration | $30.7 | $30.7 | Note 16. Guarantees The Company has $7.5 million in standby letters of credit and guarantees half of AFSI's $55.4 million outstanding debt Contingent Liability for Standby Letters of Credit (in millions) | Metric | January 31, 2024 (in millions) | July 31, 2023 (in millions) | | :-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | :----------------------------- | :---------------------------- | | Contingent liability for standby letters of credit issued under revolving credit facility | $7.5 | $7.5 | - The Company guarantees half of the $55.4 million outstanding debt of its joint venture, AFSI, as of January 31, 202484 Earnings from AFSI (in millions) | Metric | Three Months Ended Jan 31, 2024 (in millions) | Six Months Ended Jan 31, 2023 (in millions) | | :-------------------- | :-------------------------------------------- | :------------------------------------------ | | Earnings from AFSI | $2.5 | $4.2 | Note 17. Commitments and Contingencies Liabilities for claims and litigation were not material, with contingent compensation and consideration liabilities totaling $1.7 million and $24.3 million respectively - Liabilities recorded for claims and litigation were not material to the Company's financial position, results of operations, or liquidity86 Contingent Liabilities (in millions) | Contingency Type | January 31, 2024 (in millions) | July 31, 2023 (in millions) | | :-------------------------------- | :----------------------------- | :---------------------------- | | Contingent compensation arrangement liability (Purilogics) | $1.7 | $1.1 | | Maximum payout (Purilogics contingent compensation) | $3.0 | $3.0 | | Contingent consideration liability (Purilogics) | $24.3 | $23.2 | | Maximum payout (Purilogics contingent consideration) | $29.0 | $29.0 | | Other acquisition contingent consideration liability | $1.7 | $1.7 | Note 18. Segment Reporting The Company operates through Mobile Solutions, Industrial Solutions, and Life Sciences segments, with Mobile and Industrial showing growth, while Life Sciences reported losses - The Company's reportable segments are Mobile Solutions, Industrial Solutions, and Life Sciences, with Corporate and Unallocated covering non-allocable expenses93 Net Sales by Segment (in millions) | Segment | Net Sales (3 Months Ended Jan 31, 2024, in millions) | Net Sales (3 Months Ended Jan 31, 2023, in millions) | Net Sales (6 Months Ended Jan 31, 2024, in millions) | Net Sales (6 Months Ended Jan 31, 2023, in millions) | | :------------------ | :--------------------------------------------------- | :--------------------------------------------------- | :--------------------------------------------------- | :--------------------------------------------------- | | Mobile Solutions | $550.3 | $522.5 | $1,090.3 | $1,077.4 | | Industrial Solutions | $263.4 | $246.4 | $509.6 | $476.0 | | Life Sciences | $63.0 | $59.4 | $123.1 | $122.2 | | Total Company | $876.7 | $828.3 | $1,723.0 | $1,675.6 | Earnings (Loss) Before Income Taxes by Segment (in millions) | Segment | Earnings (Loss) Before Income Taxes (3 Months Ended Jan 31, 2024, in millions) | Earnings (Loss) Before Income Taxes (3 Months Ended Jan 31, 2023, in millions) | Earnings (Loss) Before Income Taxes (6 Months Ended Jan 31, 2024, in millions) | Earnings (Loss) Before Income Taxes (6 Months Ended Jan 31, 2023, in millions) | | :------------------ | :------------------------------------------------------------------- | :------------------------------------------------------------------- | :------------------------------------------------------------------- | :------------------------------------------------------------------- | | Mobile Solutions | $99.2 | $78.6 | $191.4 | $158.9 | | Industrial Solutions | $47.4 | $46.3 | $90.7 | $83.9 | | Life Sciences | $(5.8) | $6.3 | $(10.0) | $17.1 | | Corporate and unallocated | $(11.8) | $(17.9) | $(20.2) | $(30.1) | | Total Company | $129.0 | $113.3 | $251.9 | $229.8 | Net Sales by Business Unit (in millions) | Business Unit | Net Sales (3 Months Ended Jan 31, 2024, in millions) | Net Sales (3 Months Ended Jan 31, 2023, in millions) | Net Sales (6 Months Ended Jan 31, 2024, in millions) | Net Sales (6 Months Ended Jan 31, 2023, in millions) | | :-------------------------- | :--------------------------------------------------- | :--------------------------------------------------- | :--------------------------------------------------- | :--------------------------------------------------- | | Mobile Solutions segment | $550.3 | $522.5 | $1,090.3 | $1,077.4 | | Off-Road | $91.9 | $106.2 | $186.6 | $209.8 | | On-Road | $33.5 | $34.5 | $71.3 | $70.5 | | Aftermarket | $424.9 | $381.8 | $832.4 | $797.1 | | Industrial Solutions segment | $263.4 | $246.4 | $509.6 | $476.0 | | Industrial Filtration Solutions | $224.5 | $211.8 | $435.1 | $407.8 | | Aerospace and Defense | $38.9 | $34.6 | $74.5 | $68.2 | | Life Sciences segment | $63.0 | $59.4 | $123.1 | $122.2 | Note 19. Restructuring and Other Charges No material restructuring charges were recorded in fiscal 2024, but $7.6 million and $9.3 million in charges were recorded in fiscal 2023 - No material restructuring or other charges were recorded for the three and six months ended January 31, 2024100 - In fiscal 2023, the Company recorded $7.6 million in charges for an organizational redesign and an additional $9.3 million for severance, other redesign costs, and exiting a lower-margin customer program101102 Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations This section provides management's perspective on the Company's financial performance, liquidity, and capital resources, detailing consolidated and segment-specific results Overview Donaldson Company, Inc. is a global leader in filtration products and solutions, with a diversified business model mitigating market weaknesses - Donaldson Company, Inc. is a global leader in technology-led filtration products and solutions, serving a broad range of industries and advanced markets103 - The Company's operating segments are Mobile Solutions, Industrial Solutions, and Life Sciences, offering diverse products from replacement filters to bioprocessing equipment104105106 - Diversification across diesel engine end markets, global end markets, technology, and OEM/replacement parts customers helps limit the impact of weakness in any single product line, market, or geography107 Consolidated Results of Operations Consolidated net sales, gross profit, operating income, and net earnings increased for both periods, driven by pricing, volume, and lower costs Three months ended January 31, 2024 compared with three months ended January 31, 2023 Net sales increased by 5.8% to $876.7 million, with gross margin improving to 35.2%, and diluted EPS rising by 15.9% to $0.81 Consolidated Results of Operations (Three Months Ended Jan 31, in millions, except per share data) | Metric | Jan 31, 2024 (in millions) | % of net sales (2024) | Jan 31, 2023 (in millions) | % of net sales (2023) | | :-------------------------- | :------------------------- | :-------------------- | :------------------------- | :-------------------- | | Net sales | $876.7 | | $828.3 | | | Gross profit | $308.6 | 35.2% | $284.4 | 34.3% | | Operating income | $129.7 | 14.8% | $116.3 | 14.0% | | Net earnings | $98.7 | 11.3% | $86.0 | 10.4% | | Net EPS - diluted | $0.81 | | $0.70 | | - Net sales increased by $48.4 million (5.8%), with foreign currency translation contributing $4.8 million. Growth was primarily driven by volume increases and higher pricing110 - Gross margin as a percentage of net sales increased from 34.3% to 35.2%, primarily due to higher pricing and lower freight and select material costs111 - Selling, general and administrative expenses increased by $7.2 million (4.9%), but decreased as a percentage of net sales (17.9% from 18.1%), due to lower non-recurring costs, partially offset by increased headcount and acquired Life Sciences business expenses112 - Research and development expenses increased to $22.1 million (2.5% of net sales) from $18.5 million (2.2% of net sales), mainly due to increased headcount113 - Other income, net, increased by $3.3 million to $4.9 million, driven by higher joint venture earnings and lower foreign currency losses115 - The effective tax rate decreased to 23.5% from 24.1% due to a favorable shift in global earnings mix and increased foreign tax credit benefits116 Six months ended January 31, 2024 compared with six months ended January 31, 2023 Net sales increased by 2.8% to $1,723.0 million, with gross margin improving to 35.4%, and diluted EPS rising by 11.4% to $1.56 Consolidated Results of Operations (Six Months Ended Jan 31, in millions, except per share data) | Metric | Jan 31, 2024 (in millions) | % of net sales (2024) | Jan 31, 2023 (in millions) | % of net sales (2023) | | :-------------------------- | :------------------------- | :-------------------- | :------------------------- | :-------------------- | | Net sales | $1,723.0 | | $1,675.6 | | | Gross profit | $609.5 | 35.4% | $571.6 | 34.1% | | Operating income | $254.3 | 14.8% | $235.6 | 14.1% | | Net earnings | $190.8 | 11.1% | $173.2 | 10.3% | | Net EPS - diluted | $1.56 | | $1.40 | | - Net sales increased by $47.4 million (2.8%), with foreign currency translation contributing $17.2 million. Growth was primarily from higher pricing, volume growth, and positive foreign currency impact120 - Gross margin as a percentage of net sales increased from 34.1% to 35.4%, primarily due to pricing benefits and lower freight and certain material costs121 - Selling, general and administrative expenses increased by $13.0 million (4.4%), and as a percentage of net sales (18.1% from 17.8%), primarily due to increased headcount and incremental expenses from acquired Life Sciences businesses122 - Research and development expenses increased to $43.4 million (2.5% of net sales) from $37.2 million (2.2% of net sales), mainly due to higher headcount123 - Other income, net, increased by $5.3 million to $8.7 million, driven by higher joint venture earnings and lower foreign currency losses125 - The effective tax rate decreased to 24.2% from 24.7% due to a favorable shift in global earnings mix and increased foreign tax credit benefits126 Segment Results of Operations This section details the performance of Mobile Solutions, Industrial Solutions, and Life Sciences segments, highlighting sales drivers and changes in earnings before income taxes Mobile Solutions Segment Net sales increased by 5.3% (3 months) and 1.2% (6 months) driven by Aftermarket sales, with earnings before income taxes significantly improving Mobile Solutions Segment Performance (in millions) | Metric | Net Sales (3 Months Ended Jan 31, 2024, in millions) | Net Sales (3 Months Ended Jan 31, 2023, in millions) | Net Sales (6 Months Ended Jan 31, 2024, in millions) | Net Sales (6 Months Ended Jan 31, 2023, in millions) | | :-------------------------------- | :--------------------------------------------------- | :--------------------------------------------------- | :--------------------------------------------------- | :--------------------------------------------------- | | Off-Road | $91.9 | $106.2 | $186.6 | $209.8 | | On-Road | $33.5 | $34.5 | $71.3 | $70.5 | | Aftermarket | $424.9 | $381.8 | $832.4 | $797.1 | | Total Mobile Solutions segment | $550.3 | $522.5 | $1,090.3 | $1,077.4 | | Mobile Solutions segment earnings before income taxes | $99.2 | $78.6 | $191.4 | $158.9 | | Mobile Solutions segment earnings before income taxes % of net sales | 18.0% | 15.0% | 17.6% | 14.7% | - Aftermarket net sales increased by $43.1 million (3 months) and $35.3 million (6 months), driven by market share gains, strong end market demand, and pricing benefits132135 - Off-Road net sales decreased by $14.3 million (3 months) and $23.2 million (6 months), primarily due to weak agriculture end market conditions132135 - Earnings before income taxes as a percentage of net sales increased to 18.0% (3 months) and 17.6% (6 months), driven by favorable product mix, pricing actions, and lower freight/input costs, partially offset by higher labor and overhead133136 Industrial Solutions Segment Net sales grew by 6.9% (3 months) and 7.0% (6 months) due to higher volume in power generation, dust collection, and aerospace and defense Industrial Solutions Segment Performance (in millions) | Metric | Net Sales (3 Months Ended Jan 31, 2024, in millions) | Net Sales (3 Months Ended Jan 31, 2023, in millions) | Net Sales (6 Months Ended Jan 31, 2024, in millions) | Net Sales (6 Months Ended Jan 31, 2023, in millions) | | :-------------------------------- | :--------------------------------------------------- | :--------------------------------------------------- | :--------------------------------------------------- | :--------------------------------------------------- | | Industrial Filtration Solutions (IFS) | $224.5 | $211.8 | $435.1 | $407.8 | | Aerospace and Defense | $38.9 | $34.6 | $74.5 | $68.2 | | Total Industrial Solutions segment | $263.4 | $246.4 | $509.6 | $476.0 | | Industrial Solutions segment earnings before income taxes | $47.4 | $46.3 | $90.7 | $83.9 | | Industrial Solutions segment earnings before income taxes % of net sales | 18.0% | 18.8% | 17.8% | 17.6% | - IFS net sales increased by $12.7 million (3 months) and $27.3 million (6 months), reflecting higher sales volume in power generation and industrial dust collection139142 - Aerospace and Defense net sales increased by $4.3 million (3 months) and $6.3 million (6 months) due to ongoing strength in the defense end market139142 - Earnings before income taxes as a percentage of net sales decreased to 18.0% (3 months) due to unfavorable product mix, but increased to 17.8% (6 months) due to leveraging operating expenses, operational efficiencies, and lower freight costs140143 Life Sciences Segment Net sales increased by 6.0% (3 months) but only 0.8% (6 months), with the segment reporting losses due to investments in acquired businesses Life Sciences Segment Performance (in millions) | Metric | Net Sales (3 Months Ended Jan 31, 2024, in millions) | Net Sales (3 Months Ended Jan 31, 2023, in millions) | Net Sales (6 Months Ended Jan 31, 2024, in millions) | Net Sales (6 Months Ended Jan 31, 2023, in millions) | | :-------------------------------- | :--------------------------------------------------- | :--------------------------------------------------- | :--------------------------------------------------- | :--------------------------------------------------- | | Life Sciences segment net sales | $63.0 | $59.4 | $123.1 | $122.2 | | Life Sciences segment (losses) earnings before income taxes | $(5.8) | $6.3 | $(10.0) | $17.1 | | Life Sciences segment (losses) earnings before income taxes % of net sales | (9.2)% | 10.6% | (8.1)% | 14.0% | - Net sales for the Life Sciences segment increased by 6.0% (3 months) and 0.8% (6 months), primarily driven by a recovery in market demand for products in the disk drive business145147 - The segment reported losses before income taxes of $5.8 million (3 months) and $10.0 million (6 months), a decrease from prior year earnings, due to expected investments to scale up recently acquired businesses146148 Liquidity, Capital Resources and Financial Condition The Company's liquidity is strong, driven by cash from operations and available credit, with decreased total debt and sufficient funds for future needs Liquidity The Company's primary liquidity source is cash from operating activities, supplemented by credit facilities, sufficient for growth and acquisitions - The Company generates substantial cash from operating activities as its primary source of liquidity149 - Sufficient liquidity is available to fund growth through reinvestment in existing businesses and strategic acquisitions149 Cash Flow Summary Net cash from operating activities increased, while cash used in investing and financing activities decreased for the six months ended January 31, 2024 Cash Flow Summary (Six Months Ended Jan 31, in millions) | Cash Flow Activity | Six Months Ended Jan 31, 2024 (in millions) | Six Months Ended Jan 31, 2023 (in millions) | $ Change (in millions) | | :------------------------- | :------------------------------------------ | :------------------------------------------ | :--------------------- | | Operating activities | $225.0 | $220.5 | $4.5 | | Investing activities | $(44.5) | $(57.6) | $13.1 | | Financing activities | $(171.7) | $(176.8) | $5.1 | | Effect of exchange rate changes on cash | $(2.1) | $0.0 | $(2.1) | | Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents | $6.7 | $(13.9) | $20.6 | Operating Activities Cash provided by operating activities increased by $4.5 million to $225.0 million for the six months ended January 31, 2024, primarily due to higher earnings - Cash provided by operating activities increased by $4.5 million to $225.0 million for the six months ended January 31, 2024, driven by higher earnings151 Investing Activities Cash used in investing activities decreased by $13.1 million to $44.5 million for the six months ended January 31, 2024, mainly due to capital investment timing - Cash used in investing activities decreased by $13.1 million to $44.5 million for the six months ended January 31, 2024, primarily due to the timing of capital investments152 Financing Activities Cash used in financing activities decreased by $5.1 million to $171.7 million due to lower treasury stock purchases, partially offset by higher net debt repayments - Cash used in financing activities decreased by $5.1 million to $171.7 million for the six months ended January 31, 2024153 - The decrease was primarily driven by lower treasury stock purchases ($86.6 million vs. $115.2 million), partially offset by a higher net debt repayment ($37.4 million vs. $24.7 million)153154 - Dividends paid increased to $60.3 million from $56.2 million for the six months ended January 31, 2024154 Capital Resources Cash and cash equivalents increased to $193.8 million, with $642.2 million available under credit facilities, deemed sufficient for future cash requirements Cash and Cash Equivalents (in millions) | Metric | January 31, 2024 (in millions) | July 31, 2023 (in millions) | | :-------------------------- | :----------------------------- | :---------------------------- | | Cash and cash equivalents | $193.8 | $187.1 | - The Company has $642.2 million available for borrowing under existing credit facilities as of January 31, 2024, including $452.5 million on its $500.0 million unsecured revolving credit facility155 - Management believes current liquidity is sufficient to meet cash requirements for the next 12 months and beyond, including working capital, debt service, capital expenditures, dividends, share repurchases, and potential acquisitions156 Financial Condition Total debt as a percentage of total capitalization decreased to 30.9%, with long-term debt decreasing by $57.9 million, and working capital metrics showing slight changes - Total debt represented 30.9% of total capitalization as of January 31, 2024, down from 33.2% as of July 31, 2023157 - Long-term debt outstanding decreased by $57.9 million to $563.7 million as of January 31, 2024, primarily due to a repayment on the unsecured revolving credit facility158 Working Capital Metrics | Working Capital Metric | January 31, 2024 | July 31, 2023 | | :--------------------- | :--------------- | :------------ | | Days sales outstanding | 62 days | 64 days | | Days inventory on hand | 70 days | 69 days | | Inventory turns | 5.2 times | 5.3 times | | Days payable outstanding | 53 days | 49 days | Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements The Company guarantees 50% of certain debts of its unconsolidated joint venture, AFSI, as detailed in Note 16 - The Company guarantees 50% of certain debts of its joint venture, AFSI163 Critical Accounting Estimates No material changes to the Company's critical accounting estimates have occurred since the Annual Report on Form 10-K for fiscal year ended July 31, 2023 - No material changes to critical accounting estimates have occurred since the fiscal year ended July 31, 2023164 New Accounting Standards Not Yet Adopted Information regarding new accounting standards not yet adopted is provided in Note 1 of the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements - Refer to Note 1 for details on new accounting standards not yet adopted165 Safe Harbor Statement Under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 This section outlines the Company's forward-looking statements, emphasizing inherent risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially - Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from historical results or anticipated outcomes166167 - Key risk factors include challenges in global operations, economic and geopolitical conditions, raw material availability, demand fluctuations, labor issues, competitive markets, disruptive technologies, and foreign currency fluctuations167 - The Company does not undertake to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements unless required by law167 Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk The Company is exposed to market risks from foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates, and commodity prices, which it manages through various strategies - The Company's market risk includes potential losses from adverse changes in foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates, and commodity prices168 - The overall weaker U.S. dollar had a positive impact on international net sales ($17.2 million increase) and net earnings ($1.9 million increase) for the six months ended January 31, 2024170 Derivative Fair Value Measurements The Company uses derivative instruments, including foreign currency forward contracts and net investment hedges, to manage foreign currency risk, not for speculative purposes - The Company uses derivative instruments (foreign currency forward contracts and net investment hedges) to manage foreign currency risk, not for trading or speculative purposes171 Foreign Currency Forward Contracts - Cash Flow Hedges and Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments The Company uses foreign currency forward contracts to manage exposure to local currency fluctuations from foreign purchases and sales. Designated hedges totaled $53.0 million, and non-designated hedges totaled $148.0 million as of January 31, 2024 - Foreign currency forward contracts are used to manage exposures from foreign purchases and sales, generally maturing in 12 months or less172 Foreign Currency Forward Contracts Notional Amounts (in millions) | Derivative Type | Notional Amount as of Jan 31, 2024 (in millions) | Notional Amount as of July 31, 2023 (in millions) | | :------------------------------------------------ | :----------------------------------------------- | :------------------------------------------------ | | Foreign currency forward contracts (designated as hedges) | $53.0 | $84.9 | | Foreign currency forward contracts (not designated as hedges) | $148.0 | $147.5 | Net Investment Hedges The Company uses fixed-to-fixed cross-currency swap agreements to hedge foreign currency exposure for its European operations, with a total notional amount of €80 million ($88.8 million) as of January 31, 2024. A 10% appreciation of the U.S. dollar against the Euro would result in a $7.9 million net gain - Fixed-to-fixed cross-currency swap agreements are used to hedge foreign currency exchange rate movements for European operations173 - The total notional amount of net investment hedges was €80 million ($88.8 million) as of January 31, 2024, with maturities ranging from 2027 to 2029173 - A hypothetical 10% appreciation of the U.S. dollar against the Euro would result in a net gain of $7.9 million in the fair value of these contracts174 Interest Rates Interest rate risk stems from variable-rate debt; a 0.5 percentage point increase in rates would increase interest expense and income by $0.5 million - The Company's exposure to interest rate changes primarily relates to variable-rate debt, including $40.0 million on its revolving credit facility, €80.0 million ($86.7 million) variable rate term loan, and ¥2.0 billion ($13.5 million) variable rate senior notes175 - A hypothetical 0.5 percentage point increase in short-term interest rates would increase interest expense by approximately $0.5 million for the six months ended January 31, 2024175 - A hypothetical 0.5 percentage point increase in yields would increase interest income by approximately $0.5 million for the six months ended January 31, 2024176 Commodity Prices The Company is exposed to fluctuating raw material prices and mitigates risk through supply arrangements, pricing, and cost reduction initiatives - The Company is exposed to market risk from fluctuating prices of purchased commodity raw materials, including steel, filter media, and petrochemical-based products177 - Strategies to mitigate commodity price risk include selective supply arrangements, price increases to customers, and cost reduction initiatives (material substitution, process improvement, product redesigns)177 Bankers' Acceptance Notes The Company's APAC subsidiaries accept bankers' acceptance notes from customers, which totaled $14.8 million as of January 31, 2024 - The Company's subsidiaries in APAC accept bankers' acceptance notes from customers, which are included in accounts receivable178 Bankers' Acceptance Notes (in millions) | Metric | January 31, 2024 (in millions) | July 31, 2023 (in millions) | | :-------------------------- | :----------------------------- | :---------------------------- | | Bankers' acceptance notes | $14.8 | $13.2 | Item 4. Controls and Procedures Management concluded that the Company's disclosure controls and procedures were effective, with no material changes to internal control over financial reporting Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures The Company's management, including the CEO and CFO, concluded that its disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of January 31, 2024 - The Company's Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of January 31, 2024179 Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting No material changes to the Company's internal control over financial reporting occurred during the fiscal quarter ended January 31, 2024 - No material changes in internal control over financial reporting occurred during the fiscal quarter ended January 31, 2024180 PART II. OTHER INFORMATION Item 1. Legal Proceedings Liabilities recorded for claims and litigation were not material, and it is remote that settlements will materially exceed accrued amounts - Liabilities recorded for claims or litigation were not material to the Company's financial position, results of operations, or liquidity182 - The Company believes it is remote that the settlement of any currently identified claims or litigation will materially exceed accrued amounts182 Item 1A. Risk Factors Global operations involve inherent risks and uncertainties that could adversely affect the Company's business, as detailed in its Annual Report on Form 10-K - Inherent risks and uncertainties associated with global operations could adversely affect the Company's business, reputation, financial condition, or results of operations183 - A comprehensive list of risk factors is outlined in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2023183 Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds The Board authorized a new stock repurchase plan for up to 12.0 million shares, with 603,501 shares repurchased during the quarter - On November 17, 2023, the Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to 12.0 million shares of common stock, replacing the previous plan184 Shares Repurchased (Three Months Ended Jan 31, 2024) | Period | Total Number of Shares Purchased | Average Price Paid per Share | | :-------------------------- | :------------------------------- | :--------------------------- | | November 1 - November 30, 2023 | 400,000 | $59.21 | | December 1 - December 31, 2023 | 8,004 | $61.86 | | January 1 - January 31, 2024 | 195,497 | $64.23 | | Total | 603,501 | $60.87 | - As of January 31, 2024, the Company had remaining authorization to repurchase 11.8 million shares under the November 2023 plan184 Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities This item is not applicable to the Company for the reporting period Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures This item is not applicable to the Company for the reporting period Item 5. Other Information No director or officer adopted, modified, or terminated a Rule 10b5-1 or non-Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement during the three months ended January 31, 2024 - No director or officer adopted, modified, or terminated a Rule 10b5-1 or non-Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement during the three months ended January 31, 2024187 Item 6. Exhibits This section lists all exhibits filed with the Form 10-Q, including certifications, organizational documents, stock incentive plans, and financial information in iXBRL - Exhibits include certifications (31-A, 31-B, 32), organizational documents (Restated Certificate of Incorporation, Amended and Restated Bylaws), the 2019 Master Stock Incentive Plan, and financial information in iXBRL format188