UG Q2 Earnings Fall Y/Y on Weak Cosmetic Sales, Pharma Gains

Core View - United-Guardian's second-quarter 2025 results indicate a challenging sales environment, particularly in the cosmetic ingredient segment, while showing resilience in pharmaceuticals and medical lubricants [11] Financial Performance - For Q2 2025, net sales were $2.84 million, a decrease of 16.3% from $3.39 million in Q2 2024 [2] - Net income fell 34.5% year-over-year to $626,826, or 14 cents per share, down from $956,225, or 21 cents per share [2] - On a six-month basis, net sales declined 20% to $5.32 million from $6.65 million, and net income slid 36.9% to $1.19 million, or 26 cents per share, from $1.88 million, or 41 cents per share [2] Cost and Expenses - Cost of sales as a percentage of net sales increased to 47% in Q2 2025 from 46% in the previous year [3] - Operating expenses rose 15.1% to $694,050, driven by higher marketing and selling costs [3] - Research and development expenses decreased slightly by 3.4% to $107,868 [3] Sales Performance by Product Category - Pharmaceuticals sales grew 11%, and medical lubricants rose 12% in the first half of 2025 [4] - Cosmetic ingredient sales dropped significantly due to reduced orders from the largest distributor, Ashland Specialty Ingredients, attributed to inventory overstock and softer demand in Asia [4] Management Insights - Management expressed optimism about resolving ASI's inventory issue to restore growth in the cosmetic segment [5] - The company is pursuing a strategic initiative to expand Renacidin's inclusion in drug formularies, which is expected to boost sales in the coming years [5] Factors Influencing Revenue - The year-over-year revenue decline was primarily due to weakness in cosmetic ingredient sales, which outweighed gains in pharmaceuticals and medical lubricants [6] - Higher marketing and selling costs contributed to rising operating expenses, impacting margins alongside the lower sales base [6] Future Outlook - Management anticipates a rebound in cosmetic ingredient sales in the second half of the year, contingent on resolving ASI's inventory overhang [8] - Long-term growth prospects may be supported by the expansion of Renacidin's formulary inclusion, dependent on successful execution of current initiatives [8] Other Developments - No acquisitions, divestitures, or major restructuring activities were disclosed in the quarter [10] - The company's dividend policy remained intact, reflecting continued capital return to shareholders despite profit pressures [10] - Management reaffirmed that its cash position and working capital are sufficient to meet operational needs and support strategic projects over the next 12 months [10]