Avery Dennison (AVY) Q2 2025 Earnings Call July 22, 2025 11:00 AM ET Company ParticipantsJohn Eble - VP - Finance & IRDeon Stander - President & CEOGreg Lovins - SVP & CFOGeorge Staphos - Managing DirectorMichael Roxland - MD - Equity ResearchJohn Dunigan - VP - Equity ResearchJosh Spector - Executive Director - Chemicals Equity ResearchWilliam Gilchrist - VP - IRConference Call ParticipantsJohn McNulty - MD - Chemicals AnalystGhansham Panjabi - Senior Research AnalystMatt Roberts - Research AnalystJeffrey ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The second quarter 2025 net income was $299 million, or $2.01 per diluted share, with adjusted EBITDA of $533 million [13] - Revenue for the second quarter 2025 was $4.6 billion, exceeding first quarter results due to higher realized deal pricing [13] - Operating income for the second quarter was $383 million, a 39% increase from the first quarter, driven by steel metal spread expansion [14] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Steel operations generated operating income of $382 million in the second quarter, over 65% higher sequentially due to an increase in average realized pricing [14] - Metal recycling operations reported operating income of $21 million, $4 million lower than the first quarter due to lower realized ferrous pricing [15] - Steel fabrication achieved operating income of $93 million, lower than the first quarter due to increased steel substrate costs [16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Domestic steel industry operated at an estimated production utilization rate of 77%, while the company's steel mills operated at a higher rate of 85% [28] - Coated flat rolled steel volume and pricing compressed during the quarter due to an inventory overhang related to imports [29] - North American automotive production estimates for 2025 were revised downward, but the company's specific automotive customer base remained stable [32] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on sustainability and has set emissions intensity targets aligned with the Paris Agreement [21] - The aluminum operations are expected to ramp up production, with a goal of achieving monthly EBITDA positive results before the end of 2025 [17] - The company aims to leverage its position as the largest North American metals recycler to enhance its competitive advantage [15][26] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving increased profitability in the third quarter, driven by higher volume and value-added product mix [92] - The company anticipates a meaningful positive shift in financial performance for the Sinton facility for the remainder of the year [37] - Management remains optimistic about steel demand and pricing dynamics, supported by ongoing onshoring activities and infrastructure spending [35] Other Important Information - The company repurchased $200 million of its common stock in the second quarter, representing over 1% of outstanding shares [19] - The company has a liquidity position of $1.9 billion, including cash and short-term investments [18] - The first biocarbon production facility is expected to begin production in the coming months, potentially reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 35% [22] Q&A Session Summary Question: Insights on aluminum business and EBITDA profitability - Management confirmed that there is no material change in expectations for aluminum operations achieving EBITDA positivity in the second half of the year [55][58] Question: Sinton mill's EBITDA generation - Management did not disclose specific EBITDA figures for Sinton but indicated significant improvement compared to the first quarter [61][62] Question: Market environment for aluminum ramp-up - Management noted a positive market environment with a growing supply deficit for aluminum, which is beneficial for the company [65][66] Question: Tariff exposure and pig iron sourcing - Management clarified that their long products mills do not use pig iron and emphasized their ability to manage supply chain challenges effectively [73][75] Question: Benefits of biocarbon - Management explained that biocarbon will allow for a reduction in carbon footprint and could potentially replace a portion of anthracite usage in steelmaking [84][86]

Summary of Conference Call Industry Overview - The conference call primarily discusses the impact of tariff changes on the Asian economy, with a focus on Japan and South Korea, as well as the broader implications for trade and capital expenditure (CapEx) in the region [1][2][5]. Key Points and Arguments Tariff Rates and Impacts - The weighted average tariff for the Asia region has increased from 4.8% in January 2025 to 23% currently, with projections suggesting it could rise to 27% if new tariffs are implemented on August 1 [1][2]. - Three categories of economies are identified regarding potential trade deals: 1. India is likely to finalize a deal before August 1. 2. Other economies may secure deals with tariffs above 10%, particularly in Korea and Japan. 3. ASEAN economies may receive a flat rate with minimal negotiations [2]. Trade Uncertainty and Economic Outlook - The uncertainty surrounding tariffs is affecting corporate CapEx decisions in the region, with investors indicating that the tariff issue is largely priced in [2][3]. - Historical context is provided, referencing the 2018 tariff situation where initial growth numbers remained stable despite tariff imposition, suggesting a potential lag in the impact of current tariffs [3][5]. - Key indicators to watch include monthly capital goods imports and U.S. import prices, which will help assess the burden of tariffs on Asian producers [4][5]. Japan's Economic Situation - Japan faces a 25% tariff rate, slightly higher than previous expectations, which poses downside risks to exports and CapEx if maintained [5][6]. - The upcoming upper house election on July 20 is a critical factor, with potential implications for trade negotiations and agricultural imports from the U.S. [6][8]. - The Japanese government is expected to maintain a cautious stance on agricultural imports, particularly rice, due to political pressures [6][8]. South Korea's Market Dynamics - South Korea is also affected by a 25% reciprocal tariff, with potential impacts on pharmaceuticals and semiconductors being more significant than the general tariff [9][10]. - The government is focused on market reforms and reducing real estate speculation, which could positively influence the equity market [9][10]. - Discussions around inheritance tax reforms and dividend tax changes are ongoing, with potential implications for corporate behavior and market dynamics [10][11]. Inflation and Monetary Policy - The region is expected to experience deflationary pressures due to tariff-induced slowdowns, contrasting with inflationary trends in the U.S. [16][17]. - Central banks in Asia, excluding China, are anticipated to implement rate cuts to support growth amid these challenges [16][17]. - Japan's Bank of Japan (BOJ) is unlikely to raise interest rates soon due to trade uncertainties impacting wage momentum and CapEx [8][18]. Conclusion - Overall, the conference highlights significant concerns regarding trade uncertainties and their potential impact on economic growth in Asia, particularly in Japan and South Korea. The focus remains on monitoring tariff developments, economic indicators, and policy responses from central banks [5][16][18].

Market Sentiment & Policy Impact - The global markets and Wall Street are largely dismissing President Trump's threat to reinstate tariffs, anticipating future retreats [1][3] - Major financial institutions like UBS, JP Morgan, and Goldman Sachs publicly express skepticism about the tariffs taking effect on August 1st [3] - The president's words no longer carry the same weight on Wall Street, devaluing potential policy changes [5][7] Inflation & Economic Concerns - Analysts suggest that implementing tariffs is directly inflationary, potentially influencing the Federal Reserve's rate-cutting decisions [9] - Consumers may not be immediately worried about tariffs, but a 10% tariff could impact Christmas shopping [12][15] - A New York Fed survey indicates consumers are expecting higher prices for gas, medical care, and rent [14] Government Spending & Healthcare - Concerns are raised about potential impacts on healthcare due to a proposed trillion-dollar reduction in spending, particularly regarding Medicaid [17] - The Wall Street Journal editorial board's view is that only those who deserve Medicaid should receive it, implying able-bodied adults should seek employment with healthcare benefits [17] Trade & Tariffs - The Treasury Secretary stated that $100 billion has been collected since the tariffs were put into effect, supporting the argument that tariffs are a way to raise funds [11] - Even a 10% tariff is considered high, being almost five times greater than the average tariff and the highest cumulative tariff since 1936 [12]

Core Insights - The Midyear Outlook 2025 presents a data-driven perspective on the economic and market landscape, emphasizing the need for investors to adapt to ongoing challenges such as inflation and trade uncertainties [2][3][7] - The report suggests that while the economic environment may face adverse effects from trade policies, there are emerging investment opportunities as policy-driven uncertainties begin to stabilize [4][7] Economic Environment - The report indicates that the second half of 2025 will likely see slower economic growth, reduced labor demand, and a slight increase in inflation due to the delayed effects of trade policies [7] - Concerns regarding debt, trade uncertainties, and a cautious Federal Reserve are expected to keep Treasury yields within a range, with a focus on income generation through intermediate-term bonds [7] Investment Strategies - The stock market's performance in the latter half of the year will depend on various factors including trade negotiations, advancements in AI, interest rate fluctuations, and tax policies [7] - Investors are advised to consider market pullbacks as potential opportunities to selectively increase equity positions, despite anticipated volatility in a challenging macroeconomic environment [7] Trends and Opportunities - Tactical portfolios should balance risk management with the pursuit of emerging opportunities, emphasizing diversification across asset classes, regions, and alternative investments to enhance resilience [7] - Staying vigilant during periods of market volatility may provide timely chances to acquire equity at more favorable valuations [7]

Monday, July 7, 2025It was a very eventful holiday-shortened week in the stock market last week, where we saw monthly and weekly jobs reports as well as the signage of perhaps the biggest tax cut bill into law in American history on the 4th of July last Friday. We also saw auto sales reported and Services & Manufacturing PMI updates.In all, we saw market indexes close at their weekly highs Thursday afternoon, surging to levels not seen since late February, which was prior to talk — and later action — on U.S ...

President Donald Trump upended the outlook for trade policy again Friday when he said he was ending negotiations with Canada due to the country's adoption of a Digital Services Tax. https://t.co/yJEpF54mfE ...

Investment Rating - The report does not explicitly provide an investment rating for the industry or specific companies within it Core Insights - The FOMC left rates unchanged but revised projections for GDP growth and inflation, indicating a more comfortable stance on inflation than previously anticipated [2][3] - The median projected GDP growth was marked down for 2025 and 2026, with a return to trend growth expected in 2027 [3] - Unemployment rates are projected to remain at 4.5% for 2025 and 2026, dipping slightly to 4.4% in 2027 [2][8] - Core PCE inflation is expected to decrease from 3.1% in 2025 to 2.1% in 2027, but neither headline nor core inflation is projected to return to target levels [2][8] Summary by Sections Economic Projections - Change in real GDP is projected at 1.4% for 2025, 1.6% for 2026, and 1.8% for 2027, with long-run growth also at 1.8% [8] - Unemployment rate projections are 4.5% for 2025 and 2026, and 4.4% for 2027, with a long-run projection of 4.2% [8] - PCE inflation is projected at 3.0% for 2025, 2.4% for 2026, and 2.1% for 2027, with a long-run projection of 2.0% [8] - Core PCE inflation is projected at 3.1% for 2025, 2.4% for 2026, and 2.1% for 2027 [8] - Federal funds rate projections are 3.9% for 2025, 3.6% for 2026, and 3.4% for 2027, with a long-run projection of 3.0% [8]

Summary of Key Points from the Conference Call Industry Overview: Global Logistics - **Trade Policy Instability**: The current trade policy landscape is characterized by significant instability, with potential conflicts in the Middle East affecting logistics and transshipment hubs. Multinationals and logistics partners are forced to adapt continuously [1][4] - **Q1 Volume Performance**: Strong Q1 volumes were reported, with ocean volumes increasing by 6% year-over-year (YoY) in April. However, there are concerns about potential risks to trade volumes in the second half of the year [1][3] - **Airfreight Revenue Growth**: The international airfreight industry is experiencing low single-digit revenue growth, with recent data indicating a slight decline in yields due to lower fuel surcharges [1][5] Key Metrics and Trends - **Global Trade Volumes**: Global trade volumes rose by 5.9% YoY in March, primarily driven by a 30% increase in US imports, likely due to demand pull forward ahead of tariff threats [2] - **Spot Rates**: Spot rates for ocean freight have spiked significantly, with the Shanghai Containerized Freight Index (SCFI) up by 41% and the World Container Index (WCI) up by 59% since mid-May [3] - **PMI Indicators**: Recent Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) data shows a decline in China (-2.1 points to 48.3), while the US stabilized and Europe improved [2] Company-Specific Insights DSV - **Rating**: Outperform, Target Price (TP) DKK 1,650.00 - **Acquisition of DB Schenker**: DSV is expected to become the largest freight forwarder post-acquisition, with anticipated EPS of DKK 100+ by 2028 [9] DHL - **Rating**: Outperform, TP €43.00 - **Earnings Exposure**: Approximately 80% of EBIT is tied to e-commerce and world trade, with a significant portion coming from the Express division [10] Kuehne+Nagel - **Rating**: Market-Perform, TP CHF 190.00 - **Performance Issues**: The company has underperformed peers in volume growth, attributed to deep headcount reductions impacting commercial capabilities [11][12] A.P. Moller - Maersk - **Rating**: Underperform, TP DKK 9,350.00 - **Challenges in Container Shipping**: Spot rates are down approximately 40% year-to-date, with expectations of declining volumes and a challenging supply-demand balance [13] UPS - **Rating**: Outperform, TP $133.00 - **Cost Savings Initiatives**: UPS is targeting $3.5 billion in cost savings through restructuring, which includes significant workforce reductions [24] FedEx - **Rating**: Market-Perform, TP $249.00 - **Network Integration Risks**: The company faces challenges due to policy uncertainty and complex network integration, which may impact earnings [25] Investment Implications - **European Logistics**: DSV and DHL are rated as Outperform, while Kuehne+Nagel and Maersk are rated as Market-Perform and Underperform, respectively [8] - **North American Logistics**: UPS is rated as Outperform, while FedEx is rated as Market-Perform [8] Additional Considerations - **Geopolitical Risks**: Ongoing conflicts in the Middle East may complicate logistics and trade routes, particularly affecting the Strait of Hormuz and key ports like Jebel Ali [4] - **Market Sentiment**: There is a cautious outlook on companies like Kuehne+Nagel and CSX due to execution challenges and macroeconomic uncertainties [12][18] This summary encapsulates the critical insights and metrics from the conference call, highlighting the current state of the global logistics industry and specific company performances.

Fed Policy & Interest Rates - The CNBC Fed survey projects the Fed funds rate to be at 389% by the end of the year [1] - The base case expectation is that the Fed will cut rates one to two times this year, aligning with the Fed's communication [2] - The Fed's policy statement is expected to remain unchanged, with any news potentially emerging from the statement of economic projections [3] - The Fed is expected to maintain its current stance, awaiting further data to clarify inflation expectations [7] Economic Uncertainty & Geopolitical Factors - There's increased uncertainty due to the Middle East situation, reciprocal tariffs, and unclear US-China relations [4][5] - Geopolitics is playing a bigger role in inflation expectations [6] - The Fed's tools are limited in addressing changes in trade policy, the political environment, and geopolitical factors [6] US Dollar & Treasury Market - The dollar has shown weakness, with a temporary rebound as a flight to safety [8] - Foreign buyers have reduced their holdings of US Treasuries, decreasing from 50% to 30% over the past decade [8] - Dollar depreciation is anticipated to continue marginally, with treasury market volatility expected, especially in the long end [13] Investor Sentiment & Market Dynamics - Investors, including sophisticated institutional investors, are questioning their geographic allocation to US assets [10] - The depth and liquidity of US markets, including treasuries, the dollar, and private assets, remain robust [11] - There is still no alternative to the US dollar [12] - A transition is occurring that matters for flows and valuations, but it is marginal from a geopolitical perspective at the moment [12]