Reliance Q1 Earnings and Revenues Beat Estimates, Down Y/Y

Core Viewpoint - Reliance, Inc. reported a decline in profits and net sales for the first quarter of 2025, but exceeded earnings estimates despite challenges in pricing and economic uncertainties [1][2][5]. Financial Performance - The company posted profits of $199.7 million or $3.74 per share, down from $302.9 million or $5.23 per share year-over-year [1]. - Net sales were $3,484.7 million, a decrease of approximately 4% year-over-year, but above the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $3,456.5 million [2]. - Earnings per share, excluding one-time items, were $3.77, down from $5.30 a year ago, but surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $3.66 [1][2]. Volumes and Pricing - Reliance reported a 9% year-over-year increase in shipments to 1,628.9 thousand tons, exceeding estimates [2]. - The average selling price per ton fell around 12% year-over-year to $2,143, which was lower than the estimated $2,175 [3]. Financial Position - At the end of the quarter, Reliance had cash and cash equivalents of $277.8 million, a decrease of about 13% from the previous quarter, and total outstanding debt of $1.48 billion [4]. - The company generated cash flow from operations of $64.5 million in the first quarter [4]. Q2 Outlook - Reliance expects stable demand across its diversified end markets in the second quarter, despite ongoing economic uncertainties [5]. - The company anticipates tons sold to be down 1% to up 1% compared to the first quarter, and up 3-5% from the year-ago quarter [6]. - Average selling price per ton is expected to increase by 1-3% compared to the first quarter, with adjusted earnings per share projected to be in the range of $4.50-$4.70 for Q2 [6]. Stock Performance - RS shares have declined by 1.9% over the past year, contrasting with an 11.3% decline in the Zacks Mining – Miscellaneous industry [7].