Deere & Company (NYSE:DE) Q1 2026 Earnings call February 19, 2026 10:00 AM ET Company ParticipantsChris Seibert - Manager, Investor CommunicationsJosh Beal - Director of Investor RelationsJosh Jepsen - Chief Financial OfficerRyan Campbell - President, Worldwide Construction, Forestry, and Power SystemsConference Call ParticipantsAngel Castillo - AnalystChad Dillard - AnalystDavid Raso - AnalystEvan McCall - AnalystJairam Nathan - AnalystJamie Cook - Research AnalystKristen Owen - AnalystMike Shlisky - Analy ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net sales and revenues increased by 13% to $9.611 billion, while net sales for equipment operations rose by 18% to $8.001 billion [7] - Net income attributable to the company was $656 million, or $2.42 per diluted share [7] - The operating margin for equipment operations was reported at 5.9% [5] Business Segment Data and Key Metrics Changes - Production and Precision Ag segment net sales were $3.163 billion, up 3% year-over-year, with an operating margin of 4.4% [7][9] - Small Ag and Turf segment net sales increased by 24% to $2.168 billion, with an operating margin of 9% [9] - Construction and Forestry segment net sales rose by approximately 34% to $2.67 billion, with an operating margin of 5.1% [13][14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The large ag equipment industry in the U.S. and Canada is expected to decline by 15%-20% this year, while small ag and turf demand estimates remain flat to up 5% [10][11] - In South America, industry sales of tractors and combines are projected to decrease by approximately 5% [12] - The construction equipment market in the U.S. and Canada is expected to grow by around 5% year-over-year [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to maintain production in line with retail demand and has seen improvements in order activity across various segments [30][31] - Investments in new product launches and technology enhancements are prioritized to meet market demands and improve operational efficiency [34][38] - The acquisition of Tenna is expected to enhance the company's capabilities in optimizing fleet operations and job site management [37] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about stabilization in the agricultural market, supported by government programs and improved commodity prices [22][24] - The company anticipates mid-single-digit net sales growth for equipment operations in fiscal 2026, reflecting a positive outlook despite challenges in certain markets [6][21] - The management highlighted the importance of maintaining high levels of investment throughout the cycle to position for future growth [41] Other Important Information - The company returned nearly $750 million in cash to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases, demonstrating strong financial performance [42] - The effective tax rate for fiscal year 2026 is projected to be between 25% and 27% [17] Q&A Session Summary Question: Pricing expectations for PPA and C&F segments - Management indicated that pricing for large ag is expected to maintain a positive realization for the full year, despite some incentives in South America [49][50] - C&F pricing was slightly negative in Q1, but management remains confident in future price realization [51][52] Question: Order strength in C&F segment - Management noted that contractor confidence is high, with strength in larger projects driving order activity [56][58] Question: Headwinds affecting forecasts - Management acknowledged mixed conditions in the market, particularly in housing, but overall remains optimistic about growth [62] Question: Large ag order book dynamics - The order book for large ag is showing stability, with some improvement in order velocity, although the industry outlook remains cautious [70][72] Question: Tariff impacts and potential relief - Management discussed the ongoing tariff costs and the uncertainty surrounding potential relief, indicating a cautious approach to pricing adjustments [92][93]