Core Insights - ABB Ltd's Motion segment reported revenues of $1.84 billion in Q1 2025, reflecting a 3% year-over-year increase, driven by strong performance in commercial building HVAC, power generation, and water & wastewater markets [1][7] - The operational EBITA for the Motion segment rose 5% year-over-year to $360 million, with an operational EBITA margin increase of 110 basis points to 19.6% due to positive pricing and improved operational efficiency [1][7] - The order backlog for the Motion segment increased to $5.72 billion from $5.61 billion year-over-year, with a book-to-bill ratio of 1.17 [1] Revenue and Orders - Total orders for the Motion segment decreased by 6% year-over-year to $2.16 billion, primarily due to a tough comparison with the previous year, which included a one-time $150 million order [2][7] - Weak demand was noted across various end markets, including oil & gas, food & beverage, chemicals, and rail [2] Market Position and Performance - Despite the decline in orders, the Motion segment is well-positioned for growth in the coming quarters, supported by solid momentum in the service business and a strong backlog level [3] - ABB's shares have gained 8.5% over the past six months, outperforming the industry growth of 3.5% [6] Peer Comparison - Eaton Corporation's eMobility segment reported net sales of $162 million in Q1 2025, up 2% year-over-year, but incurred an operating loss of $4 million due to launch costs [4] - EnerSys' Motive Power segment generated net sales of $392 million in Q4 fiscal 2025, down 0.6% year-over-year, with flat volume growth and a positive price/mix impact of 1% [5] Valuation Metrics - ABB is currently trading at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 23.17X, slightly above the industry average of 23.12X [9] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for ABB's second-quarter 2025 earnings has declined over the past 60 days, with current estimates at 1.29 for Q2 2025 and 2.43 for the current year [11][12]
Can ABB's Motion Segment Sustain Growth Amid Softening Orders?