International Flavors Set to Report Q1 Earnings: What to Expect?

Core Viewpoint - International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. (IFF) is expected to report a decline in sales and earnings for the first quarter of 2025, with a consensus estimate of $2.83 billion in sales, reflecting a 2.2% decrease year-over-year, and earnings per share estimated at $1.12, indicating a 0.9% dip from the previous year [1][2]. Financial Estimates - The consensus estimate for IFF's sales is $2.83 billion, down 2.2% from the prior year [1]. - The earnings estimate is $1.12 per share, which has increased by 2.7% over the past 60 days but shows a year-over-year decline of 0.9% [2]. - The earnings estimates for upcoming quarters are as follows: Q2 at $1.17, F1 at $4.20, and F2 at $4.54 [2]. Earnings Surprise History - IFF has beaten the Zacks Consensus Estimates in three of the last four quarters, with an average surprise of 17.9% [3][4]. Earnings ESP and Zacks Rank - IFF has an Earnings ESP of +1.05%, indicating a potential earnings beat [5]. - The company currently holds a Zacks Rank of 3, suggesting a hold position [6]. Performance Factors - IFF is experiencing volume growth across its business segments, which is expected to positively impact sales performance [7]. - The company is facing high raw material costs and additional expenses related to labor, shipping, and cleaning, which may negatively affect margins despite cost reduction efforts [8]. Segment Projections - The Nourish segment is projected to see a 3.6% decline in sales to $1.44 billion, with operating EBITDA expected to fall 2.1% to $211 million [9]. - The Scent segment's sales are estimated to decrease by 6% to $606 million, with operating EBITDA projected to decline 15.9% to $132 million [10]. - The Health & Biosciences segment is expected to report sales of $532 million, reflecting a slight increase of 0.2%, with operating EBITDA anticipated to rise 1.7% to $162 million [11]. Recent Developments - IFF completed the divestiture of its Pharma Solutions business to Roquette on May 1, 2025, which is expected to help the company achieve its target net debt to credit-adjusted EBITDA ratio of below 3.0X [12]. Stock Performance - Over the past year, IFF shares have decreased by 8%, contrasting with a 0.4% growth in the industry [13].