Core Insights - The report from the China Automobile Dealers Association indicates that over half of the surveyed dealers have rebate payment periods controlled within 30 days, while some brands exceed 60 days [1] - 53.19% of dealers reported inventory levels exceeding 1.5, with 29.36% having inventory over 2.0 [1] - Among the surveyed brands, 8 reported no price inversion issues, while the remaining 32 brands experienced an average price inversion of approximately 16.18% [1] Recommendations - The association suggests optimizing rebate policies by simplifying rebate structures, shortening payment periods to no more than 30 days, and providing rebates in cash or easily accessible forms [2] - It emphasizes the need for strict cost accounting and market-based pricing to address price inversion issues [2] - The association advises against forcing dealers to take vehicles linked to rebate policies and recommends reducing dealer inventory to reasonable levels [2] - Local government departments are encouraged to enhance market competition management and address unfair competition and pricing distortions caused by inconsistent subsidy policies [2] Surveyed Brands - The report includes a list of 40 surveyed brands, such as BMW, BYD, and Audi, among others [3]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q4, net sales increased by 30.4% to $207 million, and unit volume increased by 16.8% to 1,221 boats [18] - Consolidated net sales per unit increased by 11.6% to $169,565, driven by inflation and a favorable model mix [19] - Gross profit increased by 162.1% to $32.7 million, with gross margin rising to 15.8% from 7.9% in the prior year [19] - For the full fiscal year 2025, net sales decreased by 2.6% to $807.6 million, and unit volume decreased by 9% to 4,898 boats [22] - Adjusted EBITDA decreased by 9.1% to $74.8 million, with adjusted EBITDA margin decreasing by 60 basis points to 9.3% [23] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Malibu and Axis brands represented approximately 46.6% of unit sales, while Cobalt represented 26.9% and saltwater fishing represented 26.5% [19] - Adjusted EBITDA margin for the Malibu segment increased to 19.4% from 15.3% in the previous year, while the saltwater fishing segment decreased to 9.5% from 10.8% [24] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Initial market data indicated that fiscal Q4 was the weakest quarter of the year, with the broader market down mid-teens percentage points [9] - Elevated interest rates and macroeconomic uncertainty affected consumer sentiment, leading to softer industry retail data [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to introduce 11 new model year 26 boats while maintaining a commitment to quality and safety [7] - A focus on dealer health and inventory alignment is central to the company's strategy, with proactive steps taken to reduce dealer inventory [9][10] - The company aims to remain disciplined and aligned with market conditions while preparing for potential growth when the market normalizes [16][17] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the challenging retail environment and macroeconomic uncertainties but expressed confidence in the company's ability to navigate these challenges [6][15] - The company anticipates a modest direct impact from tariffs on cost of sales, estimated between 1.5% to 3% [15] - For fiscal year 2026, the company expects net sales to be flat to down mid-single digits, with gradual improvement projected towards the back half of the year [28][29] Other Important Information - The company generated $29 million in free cash flow and returned $36 million to shareholders through share repurchases [8][25] - The balance sheet remains strong, with $19 million of net cash and over $300 million of untapped liquidity on the credit facility [25][26] Q&A Session Summary Question: Inventory levels and destocking expectations - Management indicated that elevated inventory levels are modest, around one to two weeks, and will be addressed in fiscal 2026 guidance [32][33] Question: Impact of tariffs on pricing - Management is exploring multiple mitigation strategies for tariffs, including supply chain adjustments, but has incorporated increased costs into guidance [34][35] Question: Retail outlook and interest rate cuts - Guidance does not assume any interest rate cuts, and management expects normalized promotions to drive market share during the boat show season [39][40] Question: Health of the dealer base and industry inventory levels - The dealer network is generally healthy, but there is a slight excess inventory due to softer retail in Q4; the industry is improving overall [56][58] Question: Pricing and cost mitigation strategies - Management has taken steps to mitigate costs through advanced purchases and expects some price increases to be necessary [60][61] Question: Long-term debt and capital expenditure plans - There is no change in capital strategy; the company maintains a strong net cash position while being disciplined in capital expenditures [66][67]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q1 2025, sales decreased by 12% due to reduced shipments to manage dealer inventory amidst a downturn in powersports [7][9] - Adjusted EPS was negative $0.90, aligning with the guidance range provided in January [9] - North American retail sales were down 7%, with better performance in the utility business compared to recreational products [9][10] - Gross profit margin decreased by 147 basis points, primarily due to promotions and economic downturn [38] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Off Road sales declined by 10% due to lower volume and higher promotions, although a favorable mix partially offset this [36][38] - On Road sales fell by 20%, impacted by a challenging motorcycle market and engine delivery timing issues [39] - Marine sales decreased by 7%, consistent with planned reductions in shipments, while the pontoon industry saw an 11% decline year-to-date [41] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - International business sales dropped by 16% due to weak markets in both off-road and on-road segments [36] - Retail trends showed volatility, with significant month-to-month swings attributed to high inflation and interest rates [92] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company has withdrawn its full-year guidance due to the fluid tariff environment and its impact on consumer spending [12] - A four-pronged tariff mitigation strategy has been implemented, focusing on supply chain adjustments, cost control, market reprioritization, and government advocacy [26] - The company aims to emerge stronger by maintaining close relationships with dealers and focusing on cash preservation [12][34] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the challenging environment but expressed confidence in the company's ability to navigate through it [6][34] - The CEO emphasized the importance of innovation and dealer partnerships in overcoming current market challenges [17][34] - Management noted that consumer reluctance to spend on discretionary items is affecting retail performance, with expectations for modestly lower retail demand [92] Other Important Information - The company has seen improvements in warranty claims, indicating better product quality and customer satisfaction [39][98] - The company is focused on reducing working capital and has achieved the highest Q1 operating free cash flow in nine years [32] Q&A Session Summary Question: What role will pricing play in tariff mitigation efforts? - Management indicated that pricing will remain stable through May, as raising prices in a recessionary environment is challenging [56] Question: Where does the company stand in terms of inventory cleanup? - Management believes they are in the later innings of the inventory cleanup process, with improvements noted across the industry [61] Question: What is the expected annualized impact from tariffs in 2026? - Management refrained from providing specific estimates for 2026, focusing instead on current year impacts and mitigation efforts [70] Question: How is the company planning shipment levels in light of retail demand? - The company plans to ship lower than retail to continue reducing dealer inventory, adjusting as market conditions evolve [102][104] Question: What actions are being taken to preserve cash? - Management is focused on cash preservation, reviewing CapEx budgets, and maintaining liquidity through discussions with lending partners [78][84]