H1 2025 Results: Increase in Operating Margin & Net Cash Flow, Transformation Underway, Guidance Confirmed

Core Insights - The company reported a slight decline in sales of 0.4% year-on-year, with total sales reaching €13,477 million in H1 2025 compared to €13,534 million in H1 2024, while organic growth was positive at 1.1% [3][10][30] - Adjusted EBITDA increased by 7.8% to €1,762 million, with the operating margin improving by 20 basis points to 5.4% of sales, driven by strict cost control and operational improvements [3][8][14] - The net cash flow more than doubled to €418 million, reflecting a significant improvement in cash management and operational efficiency [3][25][26] - The company confirmed its full-year guidance for 2025, maintaining targets for sales, operating margin, net cash flow, and leverage [4][38] Financial Performance - Sales for H1 2025 were €13,477 million, a decrease of 0.4% from H1 2024, with organic growth of 1.1% [3][10] - Adjusted EBITDA rose to €1,762 million, up 7.8% from €1,635 million in H1 2024, representing 13.1% of sales [3][24] - Operating income increased by 3.1% to €722 million, with an operating margin of 5.4% [3][14] - The net result for the group was a loss of €269 million, primarily due to non-cash depreciation related to the SYMBIO joint venture [3][17] Cost Management and Transformation - The company is undergoing a significant organizational transformation aimed at enhancing accountability and operational excellence, with a focus on a division-centric structure [4][7][34] - The SIMPLIFY project aims to streamline operations and reduce costs, targeting a €110 million reduction in the cost base by 2028 [9][36] - Strict cost and cash discipline has been a key driver of improvement, with a notable reduction in capital expenditures and capitalized R&D [8][30] Market and Operational Context - Global automotive production increased by 3.1% in H1 2025, but the company faced a challenging geographic mix, particularly in EMEA and the Americas [12][51] - The company recorded order intake of €14 billion in H1 2025, down from €15 billion in H1 2024, attributed to delayed tenders in North America [37] - The company anticipates a volatile production environment in H2 2025, with a projected automotive market production of 45 million light vehicles [38][39] Strategic Initiatives - The company is actively reviewing its business portfolio to prioritize leadership positions and streamline operations, including potential asset disposals [10][31] - The EU-FORWARD program is expected to yield further savings and operational improvements, contributing to the company's financial targets [8][38] - The company aims to reduce its net debt/Adjusted EBITDA ratio below 1.5x by 2026, supported by ongoing disposals and operational efficiencies [38][39]