Friedman Stock Declines Despite Strong Q2 Earnings and Century Deal

Core Insights - Friedman Industries reported a net earnings of $2.2 million for Q2 fiscal 2026, a significant recovery from a net loss of $0.7 million in the same quarter last year, with net sales increasing by 42.7% to $152.4 million [2][10] - The company experienced record sales volume, selling approximately 154,500 tons of inventory and 24,500 tons of toll-processed material, marking a 28% year-over-year increase [2][10] - The flat-roll segment was the primary growth driver, with sales rising 47.2% to $143.3 million and operating profit jumping 113.5% to $5.7 million [3][10] Financial Performance - The tubular segment saw a mixed performance, with sales declining 3.6% to $9 million, but the average selling price per ton increased by 15% to $1,185, resulting in a swing to operating income of $0.9 million from a loss of $0.6 million [4][10] - Operating expenses increased due to higher volumes and acquisition-related costs, with processing and warehousing expenses rising 15.3% to $9.1 million and delivery expenses increasing 32.6% to $7.1 million [5][10] - Earnings before income taxes improved to $2.9 million from a loss of $0.9 million, aided by effective risk management and lower interest expenses [6][10] Balance Sheet and Equity - Total assets rose to $311.3 million as of September 30, 2025, from $226.8 million in March 2025, while total stockholders' equity increased to $139.3 million [7] - Liabilities grew to $172 million, reflecting higher borrowings associated with the company's expansion and acquisition strategy [7] Strategic Direction - Management highlighted the quarter as a significant milestone, emphasizing record sales volume and improved capacity utilization [8] - The company is focused on a strategic transformation that combines organic growth with selective acquisitions and disciplined capital allocation, including ongoing dividends and opportunistic share repurchases [8][9] - The acquisition of Century Metals & Supplies is expected to enhance margins and growth, broadening the product portfolio and geographic reach [12] Future Outlook - For Q3 fiscal 2026, the company expects sales volumes to remain consistent with Q2 levels, with additional tonnage from the Century acquisition anticipated to offset seasonal softness [11] - Management projects a modest sequential improvement in margins, supported by expected increases in metals pricing [11]