ESP Stock Down 13% Despite Q2 Earnings Rise Y/Y on Margin Gains

Core Viewpoint - Espey Mfg. & Electronics Corp. has experienced a significant decline in stock price despite reporting increased net income, indicating potential market concerns despite improved profitability metrics. Financial Performance - For Q2 of fiscal 2026, Espey reported net income of $0.99 per share, an increase from $0.71 per share in the same quarter last year [1] - Net sales decreased by 10.8% to $12.1 million from $13.6 million a year earlier, yet net income rose by 47% to $2.8 million compared to $1.9 million in the prior-year quarter [2] - Gross profit increased to $4.2 million from $3.2 million, raising gross margin to 34.7% from 23.2%, attributed to product mix, labor efficiencies, and process improvements [3] Expenses and Income - Selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expenses remained flat at $1.1 million, with increases in ESOP contributions and salaries offset by lower stock option expenses [4] - Other income rose to $0.4 million from $0.3 million, reflecting higher interest earned on cash and investment balances [4] Backlog and Orders - Total backlog increased to $134.7 million as of Dec. 31, 2025, from $120.1 million a year earlier, with $88.8 million tied to three significant customers [5] - New orders in the first half of fiscal 2026 totaled approximately $16.3 million, a decrease from $46.9 million in the prior-year period, with expectations for lower new orders compared to fiscal 2025 [6] Management Outlook - Management anticipates higher revenues in fiscal 2026 compared to fiscal 2025, driven by existing backlog, despite lighter first-half sales [7] - Full-year net income is expected to approximate fiscal 2025 levels [7] Risks and Challenges - The company cited ongoing inflationary pressures, tariffs, and potential supply chain or labor constraints as risks, but does not expect a material impact on fiscal 2026 operating income based on current conditions [8] Liquidity and Capital Position - Working capital was approximately $48.9 million at Dec. 31, 2025, up from $40.2 million a year earlier, with cash and cash equivalents totaling $17.8 million [9] - Operating cash flow for the six months was $2.9 million, down from $6.8 million in the prior-year period, primarily due to inventory builds and working capital changes [9] Other Developments - During the six months ended Dec. 31, 2025, Espey received $2 million in milestone reimbursements under a $3.4 million U.S. Navy funding award for facility and capital equipment upgrades, with completion expected by the end of fiscal 2026 [11]