Olympic Steel (ZEUS) Q2 EPS Beats by 25%

Core Insights - Olympic Steel reported Q2 2025 GAAP revenue of $496 million, exceeding analyst estimates of $491.13 million, but down 5.7% year-over-year from $526 million [1][2] - Non-GAAP earnings per share were $0.50, surpassing the consensus of $0.40, although down 16.7% from $0.60 in Q2 2024 [1][2] - The company is facing margin pressure and softening demand in the overall metals market despite successful integration of acquisitions [1][5] Financial Performance - GAAP net income for Q2 2025 was $5.2 million, a decline of 32.5% from $7.7 million in Q2 2024 [2] - Adjusted EBITDA decreased by 4.7% to $20.3 million compared to $21.3 million in the previous year [2] - The Carbon Flat Products segment saw tons sold drop by 6.2% to 214,894, with net sales down 8.2% year-over-year, although gross profit increased [7] Business Strategy - The company focuses on growth through targeted acquisitions, with plans to pursue at least one acquisition per year [4][6] - Recent acquisition of Metal Works has led to higher operating expenses but also expanded sales contributions [6] - Investments in automation and technology are aimed at enhancing operational efficiency, with approximately $35 million planned for capital expenditures in 2025 [8] Operational Developments - Olympic Steel has reduced inventory balances by 5.8% from December 31, 2024, to June 30, 2025, and generated net cash from operating activities of $64.9 million for the first half of 2025 [8] - Cash on hand was reported at $14.8 million as of June 30, 2025, with a reduction in credit facility revolver balance by $39.3 million during the same period [8] Market Outlook - Management indicated a positive outlook for increased demand in value-added products and fabrication services due to new U.S. tariffs on imported stainless steel and aluminum [9] - There is a trend of rising inquiries for fabrication projects attributed to manufacturers adjusting to tariff changes [9] - The company did not provide formal revenue or earnings guidance for the remainder of fiscal 2025 [9]