Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net revenue of over $1,100,000,000 for fiscal year 2025, an increase of just over 1% compared to the prior year [6][7] - Adjusted EPS for the year was $4.52, up approximately 7% from the previous year [7][23] - Q4 revenue reached $296,500,000, a 7% increase year-over-year, with adjusted diluted EPS of $1.32, up from $1.20 in the prior year [18][19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The North America segment saw broad-based growth, particularly in the women's health and GI categories, with brands like Summer's Eve and Dramamine performing well [18][20] - The international segment grew by 7.1% excluding foreign exchange impacts, driven by the Hydralyte brand [18][20] - E-commerce sales continued to grow at a double-digit rate, now representing high teens as a percentage of total sales [20][21] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The international segment experienced solid growth, particularly in Australia, contributing to overall performance [20] - E-commerce remains the fastest-growing channel, with shipment growth accelerating in Q4 [20][21] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company emphasizes a diversified portfolio of brands to navigate market challenges and capitalize on growth opportunities [6][28] - A disciplined capital allocation strategy is in place, focusing on M&A opportunities, share repurchases, and maintaining cash reserves for future investments [25][26] - The company plans to continue leveraging its marketing agility to adapt to changing consumer preferences and market conditions [8][62] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management highlighted ongoing challenges from tariffs, supply chain constraints, and inflation, which could impact consumer spending [5][28] - The outlook for fiscal 2026 anticipates revenues between $1,000,000,001.40 and $1,000,000,001.55, with organic growth expected at 1% to 2% [31][32] - The company expects to maintain gross margin expansion despite tariff impacts, projecting a gross margin of approximately 56.5% [21][33] Other Important Information - The company generated $243,000,000 in free cash flow for fiscal 2025, up approximately 2% from the prior year [24] - The leverage ratio improved to 2.4 times, providing strategic flexibility for capital deployment [25][26] Q&A Session Summary Question: Organic sales growth guidance of 1% to 2% - Management acknowledged macroeconomic volatility and the timing of e-commerce orders as factors influencing the guidance [35][36] Question: Recovery expectations for Clear Eyes - Management confirmed plans to expand capacity with existing suppliers and bring on new suppliers, expecting recovery in the second half of fiscal 2026 [39][41] Question: Women's health category growth outlook - Management expressed confidence in the growth of Summer's Eve and Monistat, citing successful marketing and new product launches [45][47] Question: Capital allocation strategy with reduced leverage - Management indicated a balanced approach to capital allocation, focusing on M&A opportunities while also considering share repurchases [52][54] Question: Consumer uncertainty and marketing plans - Management plans to adapt marketing strategies based on evolving consumer preferences, emphasizing the importance of needs-based products [60][62] Question: Tariff impacts and cost-saving measures - Management confirmed the $15,000,000 tariff headwind and outlined plans to mitigate costs through supplier collaboration and potential pricing adjustments [64][66] Question: E-commerce growth internationally - Management noted that e-commerce growth is primarily US-centric, with less growth observed in other markets [68] Question: Opportunities for domestic suppliers - Management is exploring opportunities for domestic sourcing to mitigate tariff impacts, particularly from China [74][76] Question: Innovation and new product launches - Management indicated a steady approach to innovation, focusing on margin-accretive products without targeting a specific percentage of sales from new products [78][80]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q4, the company reported sales of $193 million, exceeding the high end of guidance, with non-GAAP EPS of $0.06, above the midpoint of guidance [18] - Gross margin was 45.6%, operating margin was 9%, and adjusted EBITDA was 14.8% of sales [26] - For the full fiscal year 2025, total sales were $725 million, a decline of 31% year-over-year, with a gross margin of 48% [31] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Automotive sales increased by 8% sequentially in Q4, led by e-mobility sales which rose 16% sequentially, but declined 23% year-over-year [26] - Industrial and other sales increased by 9% sequentially, driven by growth in data center and robotics, but declined 11% year-over-year [26] - Magnetic sensor sales accounted for 61% of total sales, increasing by 3% sequentially, while power product sales increased by 19% sequentially [27] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sales by geography were well balanced: 27% in China, 24% in the rest of Asia, 20% in Japan, 16% in the Americas, and 13% in Europe [28] - The company noted a 25% decline in distributor inventory levels exiting Q4 compared to the beginning of FY 2025, indicating a positive trend [25] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to accelerate new product development and expand its serviceable addressable market (SAM) to target a $12 billion market opportunity [10] - Focus areas include automotive and industrial markets, with a commitment to double-digit sales growth and maintaining gross margins of 58% or greater [17] - The company is implementing operational efficiency initiatives to enhance gross margins and profitability, including a restructuring program expected to yield annualized cost savings of at least $15 million [30] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in entering an upcycle, with positive indicators such as declining customer inventories and increasing bookings [24] - The CEO emphasized the importance of innovation and operational efficiency to drive growth and shareholder value [17][65] - Management noted that there are no abnormal pricing pressures from automotive customers related to tariffs, maintaining a normal annual cadence in negotiations [92][95] Other Important Information - The company received proposals from Onsemi for potential acquisition, which were ultimately withdrawn after the board considered them [20] - The effective tax rate for Q4 was 4%, with a full-year effective tax rate of 3%, primarily due to research and development credits [31] Q&A Session Summary Question: Update on China for China strategy - The company is making significant progress on its China for China supply chain initiative, with expectations for meaningful revenues to start shipping later in the year [41][42] Question: Gross margin outlook - The company expects to see benefits from cost reductions and restructuring initiatives impacting gross margins in Q1, with a long-term target of 58% [44][60] Question: Backlog growth and design wins - The company is seeing strong design wins in e-mobility and industrial sectors, contributing to backlog growth [50][51] Question: Inventory levels and distribution channel - Distribution channel inventories declined by 25% year-over-year, indicating a healthy inventory situation [57] Question: Competition in China - The company continues to see positive growth in China despite competition, with strong customer momentum and design wins [86][87]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q4, the company reported sales of $193 million, which was above the high end of guidance, and non-GAAP EPS of $0.06, also above guidance midpoint [17][24] - Gross margin for Q4 was 45.6%, which was below expectations due to a combination of product mix and lower absorption [27] - For the full fiscal year 2025, total sales were $725 million, reflecting a decline of 31% year over year, with a gross margin of 48% [30] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Automotive sales increased by 8% sequentially in Q4, led by e-mobility sales which rose 16% sequentially, but declined 23% year over year [24][31] - Industrial and other sales increased by 9% sequentially, driven by growth in data center and robotics, but declined 11% year over year [25][31] - Magnetic sensor sales increased by 3% sequentially, accounting for 61% of total sales, while power product sales increased by 19% sequentially [26] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sales by geography were well balanced, with 27% in China, 24% in the rest of Asia, 20% in Japan, 16% in the Americas, and 13% in Europe [27] - The company noted a decline in distributor inventory levels by 25% exiting Q4 compared to the beginning of FY 2025, indicating a positive trend [22] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to accelerate new product development and expand its serviceable addressable market (SAM), targeting a $12 billion market opportunity [8] - Focus on relentless innovation to drive leadership in existing and new markets, particularly in automotive and industrial sectors [8][10] - Plans to execute operational efficiency initiatives to enhance gross margins and profitability, including a restructuring program expected to yield annualized cost savings of at least $15 million [29][15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in entering an upcycle, with positive indicators such as declining customer inventories and increasing bookings [22] - The company anticipates first-quarter sales in the range of $192 million to $200 million, representing an 18% year-over-year increase [33] - Management remains optimistic about achieving double-digit sales growth and maintaining gross margins of 58% or greater in the long term [16] Other Important Information - The company received proposals from Onsemi for potential acquisition, but Onsemi ultimately withdrew its interest [19] - The effective tax rate for Q4 was 4%, with a full-year effective tax rate of 3%, primarily due to R&D credits [30] Q&A Session Summary Question: Update on China for China strategy - The company is making significant progress on its China for China supply chain initiative, with expectations for meaningful revenues to ship later in the year [39][40] Question: Gross margin outlook - The company expects to see benefits from cost reductions and restructuring initiatives impacting gross margins in Q1, with a target to return to 50% gross margin in the near term [41][44] Question: Backlog growth and design wins - The company reported strong design wins, with over 70% in strategic focus areas, indicating a positive trend in backlog growth [47] Question: Inventory levels and distribution channel - Distribution channel inventories declined by 25% year over year, and the company is optimistic about inventory levels normalizing [55] Question: Pricing pressures and tariff impacts - The company has not seen abnormal pricing pressures or requests for additional price declines from automotive customers due to tariffs [92][93] Question: Signs of potential shortages - The company is observing potential shortages in longer lead raw materials, particularly for data center products, as demand increases [96]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net revenue of over $1,100 million, an increase of just over 1% compared to the prior year [6] - Adjusted EPS reached $4.52, up approximately 7% year-over-year [7][23] - Total company gross margin was 55.8% for fiscal 2025, up 30 basis points from the prior year, with Q4 gross margin improving to approximately 57% [21] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - North America segment revenues increased by 30 basis points, while international segment revenues grew by 6.4% [20] - The women's health category, particularly the Summer's Eve brand, showed stabilization and growth, marking the second consecutive quarter of year-over-year sales growth [6][20] - The GI category, led by brands like Dramamine and Fleet, continued to experience strong performance [6][20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The international segment experienced growth in excess of 5%, driven by strong performance in Australia, particularly with the Hydralyte brand [20] - E-commerce sales grew at a double-digit rate, now representing high teens as a percentage of total sales [20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company emphasized a disciplined capital allocation strategy, focusing on M&A opportunities, share repurchases, and building cash reserves [26] - A multi-year pipeline of new product development is in place to ensure continuous innovation and meet consumer needs [13][15] - The company plans to leverage its diverse and predominantly domestic supplier base to navigate tariff impacts and inflationary pressures [31] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged heightened market volatility and consumer uncertainty due to tariffs and inflation, but expressed confidence in the company's ability to navigate these challenges [29][30] - For fiscal 2026, the company anticipates revenues between $1,000 million and $1,055 million, with organic growth forecasted at approximately 1% to 2% [32] Other Important Information - The company generated $243 million in free cash flow for fiscal 2025, up approximately 2% from the prior year [24] - The company plans to maintain a gross margin of approximately 56.5% for both fiscal 2026 and Q1 [21] Q&A Session Summary Question: Clarification on organic sales growth guidance - Management indicated that the guidance reflects macroeconomic uncertainties and the timing of e-commerce orders, which were pulled forward [36][37] Question: Recovery expectations for Clear Eyes - Management confirmed ongoing supply chain plans to expand capacity and expects a recovery in the second half of fiscal 2026 [40][41] Question: Outlook for women's health brands - Management expressed confidence in the growth potential of Summer's Eve and Monistat, supported by successful marketing and new product launches [46][48] Question: Capital allocation strategy and M&A opportunities - Management highlighted a balanced approach to capital allocation, focusing on M&A opportunities while also considering share repurchases [52][55] Question: Impact of consumer uncertainty on innovation and marketing - Management noted that needs-based categories tend to be resilient during economic uncertainty, and they will adapt marketing strategies to align with consumer preferences [60][62] Question: Tariff impacts and cost-saving measures - Management confirmed the $15 million tariff headwind and outlined plans to implement cost-saving measures while considering surgical pricing if necessary [64][66] Question: E-commerce growth internationally - Management stated that e-commerce growth remains primarily US-centric, with less growth observed in other markets [68] Question: Opportunities for domestic suppliers - Management is exploring opportunities for domestic sourcing to mitigate tariff impacts, particularly concerning products sourced from China [74][75] Question: Innovation pipeline and margin profile - Management indicated a steady impact from new products and emphasized that all innovations must be margin-accretive [77][79]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - IFF generated approximately $2.8 billion in sales for Q1 2025, representing a 3% comparable currency neutral growth [10] - Adjusted operating EBITDA totaled $578 million for the quarter, a strong 9% increase on a comparable currency neutral basis [10] - Comparable currency neutral adjusted operating EBITDA margin increased more than 120 basis points to 20.3% [10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Pharma Solutions delivered $266 million in sales, an 8% year-over-year increase on a comparable currency neutral basis [11] - Taste segment sales were $627 million, a 7% year-over-year increase on a comparable currency neutral basis [13] - Food Ingredients had sales of $796 million, a 4% comparable currency neutral decrease from the prior year [13] - Health and Biosciences segment delivered a 5% increase in comparable currency neutral sales [14] - Scent achieved net sales of $614 million, up 4% year-over-year on a comparable currency neutral basis [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted that broader macroeconomic dynamics remain challenging, but IFF's portfolio is grounded in resilient essential end markets [20] - The company expects approximately 2% adverse impact on revenue from foreign exchange, down from 4% previously [22] Company Strategy and Development Direction - IFF is focused on strengthening its business through consistent reinvestment in core growth drivers: R&D, commercial, digital, and capacity [20] - The company is maintaining its full-year guidance ranges despite macroeconomic uncertainties [21] - IFF completed the divestiture of Pharma Solutions, which strengthens its capital structure and helps achieve a net debt to credit adjusted EBITDA ratio of below three times [7][17] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the order book remaining consistent with guidance despite macroeconomic uncertainties [28] - The company is actively working with customers to mitigate impacts of tariff actions and remains disciplined in response to macroeconomic uncertainty [9] - Management acknowledged concerns about potential recessionary pressures but emphasized the resilience of 80% of its portfolio in essential products [29] Other Important Information - Cash flow from operations totaled $127 million year-to-date, with CapEx at $179 million, approximately 6% of sales [15] - Gross debt was approximately $9.3 billion, a decrease of more than $1 billion compared to the year-ago period [17] Q&A Session All Questions and Answers Question: Can you talk us through which areas of the portfolio could potentially be at risk and which parts could be more resilient in a recessionary scenario? - Management indicated that 80% of the portfolio is in essential products, which are resilient, while discretionary areas like fine fragrances may be at risk [29] Question: Can you disclose what you think the gross impact today is on your costs from tariffs? - Management noted a gross exposure of over $100 million for 2025 related to tariffs, primarily from China, but emphasized successful supply chain optimization efforts [35] Question: What were the year-ago comps for flavors and food ingredients? - Management reported that Taste grew 11% last year in Q1, while Food Ingredients declined 4% last year [40] Question: Can you elaborate on the strategic rationale for the joint venture with Chimera? - The joint venture aims to scale enzymatic biomaterials and is expected to start operations by the end of 2027, targeting high-value biodegradable polymers [44][46] Question: What drove volumes lower in protein solutions? - Management indicated that volumes were down due to weaker performance in lower-value areas and production issues in higher-value areas, which are being resolved [55] Question: How do you see the inventory cycle affecting IFF? - Management expressed that they do not believe inventory levels are elevated enough to cause a significant downtick, given the recent destocking period [88]

Financial Performance & Guidance - Elanco's Q1 2025 revenue exceeded guidance by $25 million[9] - Adjusted EBITDA for Q1 2025 exceeded guidance by $26 million[9] - Adjusted EPS for Q1 2025 exceeded guidance by $005[9] - The company is raising its 2025 revenue guidance due to foreign exchange tailwinds, while maintaining adjusted EBITDA guidance of $830-$870 million and adjusted EPS guidance of $080-$086[11] - Elanco expects $450-$500 million of gross debt paydown in 2025[10] Revenue Analysis - Elanco achieved 4% organic constant currency revenue growth in Q1 2025[10, 14] - Q1 2025 total Elanco revenue was $1193 million, a decrease of 1% compared to $1205 million in Q1 2024[29, 31] - US Farm Animal revenue increased by 17% to $230 million in Q1 2025 compared to $197 million in Q1 2024[31] - International Farm Animal revenue decreased by 12% to $316 million in Q1 2025 compared to $360 million in Q1 2024, but increased 2% on an organic constant currency basis[31] Innovation & Portfolio - Q1 2025 innovation revenue contribution was $198 million[10, 18] - Elanco is raising its 2025 innovation sales target to $660-$740 million[10, 17, 20]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q1 2025, the company reported net income of $2.6 million or $0.19 per diluted share on net sales of $55.5 million, with gross margins increasing to 26.7% from 25% in the prior year period, reflecting a 161 basis point improvement due to lower operational costs [17][18] - Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased by 1.2% or $100,000 to $10.6 million compared to the prior year [17] - Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) increased by $500,000 to $4.9 million in Q1 2025 [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net sales declined approximately 3% year over year, but gross margins expanded by more than 160 basis points, driven by lower manufacturing and logistics costs [5][17] - The company saw growth in key categories such as archery, safety, darting, and outdoor games, which outperformed the prior year period despite overall softness in discretionary spending [5] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Inventory levels rose modestly during the quarter as the company built inventory ahead of the spring selling season for archery, basketball, and playground categories [6] - The company maintained a strong focus on working capital efficiency, generating nearly $4 million in operating cash flow [6] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on operational discipline, innovation, and customer centricity, with a strategy to strengthen direct-to-consumer and e-commerce presence [9][13] - Plans include expanding domestic manufacturing capacity and diversifying global sourcing to mitigate tariff impacts and enhance supply chain resilience [11][12][15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged ongoing softness in consumer sentiment and discretionary spending but expressed confidence in the company's diversified portfolio and operational improvements [10][12] - The company is actively analyzing and planning for various sourcing scenarios in response to trade uncertainties, particularly regarding China [11][30] Other Important Information - The company reduced bank debt by $1.8 million and paid a quarterly dividend of $2.1 million during the quarter [7] - Total debt outstanding as of March 31, 2025, was $23.8 million, with a net leverage ratio of 0.8 times trailing twelve months EBITDA [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Follow-up on proactive steps to address the tariff situation - Management highlighted the importance of a diversified category portfolio and agile supply position to navigate uncertainties, mentioning ongoing optimization of the supply chain and potential pricing actions [25][30] Question: Quantification of tariff impact in Q1 - Management indicated that there was a little over 100 basis points negative impact from tariffs in Q1, but still achieved a 161 basis point improvement in gross margins [32] Question: Inventory levels and their implications - Management explained that inventory levels were strategically reduced over the past few years, resulting in a more right-sized inventory that contributed to lower costs [33]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Gross margin in the second quarter was 35%, slightly up from the previous year's quarter, supported by cost savings efforts despite ongoing pricing discounting in the marketplace [13] - Operating expenses decreased by $7.7 million compared to the prior year’s second quarter, with a $4.3 million reduction in expenses excluding the deferred compensation plan valuation [13] - Inventory levels improved, with a balance of $180 million as of March, down approximately $69 million from the previous year's second quarter [14] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Fishing segment saw positive results from new product launches, including the Humminbird brand's new technology, which exceeded demand expectations [6][8] - The Camping and Watercraft business also reported enthusiasm for new products, with orders outpacing expectations [8] - The Diving business faced challenges due to global economic uncertainties and consumer travel, prompting a focus on operational efficiencies [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The overall market environment remains challenging, with cautious retail and trade conditions impacting performance [6][29] - Consumer sentiment and retailer hesitation have contributed to a tough marketplace, affecting sales trends throughout the quarter [29] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on innovation as a strategic priority, with ongoing investments in new product development across its business lines [6][19] - Strategies to mitigate tariff impacts include adjusting supply chain strategies, seeking operational efficiencies, and considering pricing adjustments [11][35] - The company maintains a debt-free balance sheet and solid cash position, which are viewed as competitive advantages in uncertain times [12][15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the continued market challenges but expressed optimism about the momentum from new product launches and the importance of innovation [6][12] - The company is committed to navigating current and future challenges while focusing on profitable growth [12] Other Important Information - The company has acquired a supplier for its ScubaPro brand, which is expected to drive future innovation and operational efficiencies [10] Q&A Session Summary Question: What does the pipeline look like for new products in upcoming quarters? - Management indicated that new products for fishing and camping have launched successfully and are exceeding expectations, with ongoing efforts in long-term innovation [18][19] Question: How have trends changed during the quarter, particularly from January to March? - Management noted a consistent tough environment influenced by consumer sentiment and retailer hesitation, with hopes that new products will yield positive results [29] Question: What has been the retailer response to the new tariffs announced on April 2? - Initial retailer reaction has not shown a significant pullback, but management anticipates challenges for the remainder of the season [31] Question: What is the company's exposure to China regarding tariffs? - The company imports a fair amount of products from China, particularly electronic components, and is actively working on mitigation strategies [34][35] Question: Can you provide more details on the impact of discounting and the cost savings program on gross margin? - The cost savings program is expected to provide a benefit of one to two points to gross margin, helping to offset discounting impacts [36][38] Question: What was the reason for the unusually high tax rate in the quarter? - The high tax rate was influenced by income and expenses in different jurisdictions and an accrual from tax audits in Europe, which is considered a one-time event [40]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Gross margin in the second quarter was 35%, slightly up from the previous year's quarter, supported by cost savings efforts despite ongoing pricing discounting in the marketplace [11] - Operating expenses decreased by $7.7 million compared to the prior year’s second quarter, with a $4.3 million decline attributed to lower volume-related expenses and decreased promotion expenses [11] - Inventory balance as of March was $180 million, down approximately $69 million from last year's second quarter and decreased from the fiscal year-end [12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The fishing business saw positive results from new product launches, including the Humminbird brand's new technology, which exceeded demand expectations [5] - In the camping and watercraft segment, the Jetboil brand launched new fastboil systems, with orders outpacing expectations [6] - The Old Town brand launched five new watercraft additions, expanding its popular Sportsman line and entering new recreational categories [7] - The diving business continues to face challenges due to global economic uncertainties and consumer travel, prompting a focus on operational efficiencies [8] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The overall market environment remains challenging, with cautious retail and trade conditions impacting sales [5][26] - Sales were reported to be down approximately 4% year-over-year, with consistent tough market conditions noted throughout the quarter [18][26] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on innovation as a strategic priority, with ongoing investments in new product development across various business lines [5][16] - Strategies to mitigate tariff impacts include adjusting supply chain strategies, seeking operational efficiencies, and considering pricing adjustments [9][32] - The company maintains a debt-free balance sheet and solid cash position, which are viewed as competitive advantages in uncertain times [10][13] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the continued market challenges and emphasized the importance of innovation and operational efficiency for future growth [5][10] - The management expressed confidence in the ability to navigate current challenges and create long-term value for shareholders [13] Other Important Information - The company has acquired a supplier for its ScubaPro brand, which is expected to drive future innovation and enhance operational efficiency [8] Q&A Session Summary Question: Pipeline for new products - Management indicated that new products for fishing and camping have been launched and are exceeding expectations, with ongoing efforts in long-term innovation [15][16] Question: Trends during the quarter - Management noted a consistent tough environment, with no significant changes in consumer sentiment or retailer hesitation throughout the quarter [26] Question: Impact of tariffs on ordering patterns - Initial retailer reactions to tariffs have not shown a significant pullback, but the marketplace is expected to remain challenged for the rest of the season [29] Question: Exposure to China and response to tariffs - The company imports a fair amount of products from China and Southeast Asia, and is actively working on mitigation strategies to address tariff impacts [32][33] Question: Magnitude of gross margin impacts - Cost savings are expected to provide a benefit of one to two points to gross margin, with ongoing efforts to expand these savings [34][35] Question: Unusually high tax rate in the quarter - The high tax rate was attributed to income and expense in different jurisdictions and an accrual from tax audits in Europe, which is considered a one-time event [38]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue for Q1 2025 was $26.6 million, down $3.2 million compared to Q1 2024, primarily due to a $6 million reduction in semiconductor sales and a $1.2 million decline in the industrial market [20][21] - Gross profit for Q1 2025 was $11.1 million, a decrease of $2 million year-over-year, with a gross margin of 41.5%, tightening by 230 basis points compared to the prior year [21][24] - The net loss for the quarter was $2.3 million, or a loss of $0.19 per diluted share, with an adjusted net loss of $1.4 million [23][24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sales to the auto EV market increased by $2 million, life sciences by $1 million, and other markets by $1.3 million, partially offsetting declines in semiconductor and industrial sales [7][20] - Industrial orders grew 47% year-over-year to $4.6 million, driven by a significant order from a returning customer [15][16] - Semiconductor orders declined by $6 million, reflecting tempered demand in the electronic test division [16][20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Backlog as of March 31 was $38.2 million, down $17.2 million from the prior year, with a sequential decrease of $1.3 million [19] - The opportunity funnel is at an all-time high, indicating strong future demand once market conditions stabilize [18][29] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on market diversification, innovation, and regional manufacturing to mitigate the impacts of tariff volatility and global trade uncertainties [10][28] - Plans to begin manufacturing in Malaysia in the second half of 2025 are on track, which is expected to enhance competitiveness and reduce costs [29][30] - The Vision 02/1930 growth strategy aims to increase the share of new products in total sales from 17% to 25% in the coming years [29][30] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the current geopolitical tensions and trade policy volatility have created a challenging environment, impacting customer spending and order timing [28][30] - The company remains optimistic about long-term fundamentals and expects sequential improvement in revenue and profitability throughout the year, despite limited visibility in the short term [26][30] Other Important Information - The company generated $5.5 million in cash from operations during the quarter and reduced total debt by approximately $3.2 million [24] - Operating expenses for Q1 2025 were $13.9 million, up $1.3 million year-over-year, influenced by restructuring costs and increased expenses related to the Alphamation acquisition [21][22] Q&A Session Summary Question: When did visibility get cloudier for the second half? - Management noted that customer order slowdowns began mid-quarter, impacting guidance and leading to engineering challenges that delayed shipments [32][33] Question: What are the potential swing factors for revenue? - The semiconductor and auto markets are identified as the biggest potential swing factors, with a healthy pipeline of projects in both sectors [34][35] Question: What is the breakeven quarterly revenue level now? - The breakeven point is estimated to be around $30 million, with ongoing cost-cutting initiatives expected to bring this down slightly [36][37] Question: Can you quantify the customer pipeline? - While specific numbers were not provided, management indicated that the opportunity funnel is at a record high, reflecting robust quote activity and opportunities [49][50]