Financial Performance & Guidance - Q3 2025 consolidated net sales totaled $6552 million, an 8% increase compared to Q3 2024[7] - Core Gentex net sales (excluding VOXX) totaled $5703 million in Q3 2025[7] - Core Gentex gross margin (excluding VOXX) was 349%, an increase of 140 basis points compared to 335% in Q3 2024[7] - 2025 consolidated revenue guidance is $25 - 26 billion with a gross margin of 335 - 34%[10] - 2025 Gentex stand-alone revenue guidance (primary markets) is $214 - 215 billion, with $135 - 145 million from China[13] Capital Allocation - 10 million shares were repurchased during the quarter, totaling $283 million[7] - Year-to-date return to shareholders as of October 24, 2025, is $3374 million[16] Market & Production - 2025 light vehicle production (LVP) volumes are down approximately 1% in primary markets, with North America down 2%[17] - Q4 2025 is expected to see a 4% decline in LVP compared to Q4 2024[17] - 2026 expects a 3% decline in North America, -4% in Japan/Korea, and flat EU production[17] Product & Growth - Full Display Mirror (FDM) volume in 2024 reached 296 million[24] - The company's products are launched on 130+ vehicle models across 22 different brands[26]

Core Insights - Gentex Corporation reported consolidated net sales of $655.2 million for Q3 2025, an 8% increase from $608.5 million in Q3 2024, with VOXX contributing $84.9 million to the revenue [3][7] - Core Gentex revenue, excluding VOXX, was $570.3 million, reflecting a 6% decline compared to Q3 2024, despite a 2% increase in light vehicle production in primary markets [3][8] - The consolidated gross margin improved to 34.4%, up from 33.5% in Q3 2024, while the core Gentex gross margin was 34.9%, a 140 basis-point increase [4][7] Financial Performance - Consolidated income from operations was $122.3 million, down from $125.7 million in Q3 2024, with core Gentex income from operations at $119.7 million, a 5% decrease [8][11] - Consolidated net income attributable to Gentex was $101.0 million, compared to $122.5 million in Q3 2024, primarily due to a one-time gain in the prior period [11][12] - Earnings per diluted share were $0.46, down from $0.53 in Q3 2024, influenced by the previous one-time gain [12][11] Revenue Breakdown - Gentex Automotive net sales were $558.0 million in Q3 2025, down from $596.5 million in Q3 2024, attributed to lower shipments in Europe and China [13] - Other product lines generated $12.3 million in net sales, slightly up from $12.0 million in Q3 2024 [14] - VOXX's net sales contribution was $84.9 million, with ongoing efforts to align product strategies and optimize customer relationships post-acquisition [15] Operating Expenses - Consolidated operating expenses increased to $102.8 million from $78.3 million in Q3 2024, largely due to the VOXX acquisition [5][6] - Core Gentex operating expenses were $79.2 million, a slight increase from $78.3 million in Q3 2024, including acquisition-related costs and severance expenses [6][5] Future Guidance - The company anticipates a 4% decline in global light vehicle production for Q4 2025 compared to Q4 2024, with full-year 2025 production expected to decrease by 1% [18] - Updated guidance for 2025 includes consolidated revenue estimates of $2.50 – $2.60 billion, with a gross margin of 33.5% – 34% [21][18] - The company plans to continue share repurchases, having repurchased 1.0 million shares for $28.3 million in Q3 2025 [16]

Core Insights - Investors are increasingly seeking growth stocks that demonstrate above-average growth potential, particularly in the financial sector, to achieve exceptional returns [1] - Identifying a growth stock that can fulfill its potential is challenging due to inherent risks and volatility associated with such investments [1] Company Overview - Aptiv PLC (APTV) is highlighted as a recommended growth stock due to its favorable Growth Score and top Zacks Rank [2] - The company has a historical EPS growth rate of 32.7%, with projected EPS growth of 20.7% this year, surpassing the industry average of 15.1% [4] Earnings Growth - Earnings growth is crucial for investors, with double-digit growth being a strong indicator of a company's prospects [3] - APTIV's projected EPS growth of 20.7% this year positions it favorably compared to industry standards [4] Cash Flow Growth - APTIV's year-over-year cash flow growth stands at 12.5%, significantly higher than the industry average of -8.6% [5] - The company's annualized cash flow growth rate over the past 3-5 years is 5.7%, compared to the industry average of 1.8% [6] Earnings Estimate Revisions - Positive trends in earnings estimate revisions are correlated with stock price movements, and APTIV has seen a 1.4% increase in current-year earnings estimates over the past month [7] Conclusion - APTIV holds a Growth Score of A and a Zacks Rank of 2, indicating strong potential for outperformance in the growth stock category [9]

Core Insights - Genuine Parts Company (GPC) shares increased approximately 2% following the release of third-quarter results, which showed revenue surpassing analyst expectations, although earnings slightly fell short [1] Financial Performance - The company reported adjusted earnings of $1.98 per share, slightly below the consensus estimate of $2.01 [1] - Total revenue reached $6.26 billion, exceeding expectations of $6.12 billion and reflecting a 4.9% increase compared to the same quarter last year [1] Segment Performance - Sales in the Automotive Parts Group rose 5% to $4.0 billion, driven by a 1.6% increase in comparable sales, a 2.3% contribution from acquisitions, and a 1.1% positive impact from foreign currency [2] - The Industrial Parts Group experienced a 4.6% growth, reaching $2.3 billion [2] Future Outlook - For the full year 2025, the company raised its total sales growth forecast to 3–4% from the previous range of 1–3%, while narrowing its adjusted EPS outlook to $7.50–$7.75 from $7.50–$8.00 [2] Strategic Focus - Management emphasized a commitment to disciplined cost management and strategic expansion in key markets [3]

The recent default of automotive parts supplier First Brands Group following its downgrade from ‘B+’ does not signal increased risk for the traditional direct lending market, according to Fitch Ratings. The agency said First Brands’ debt exposure was primarily tied to broadly syndicated loans (BSL), rather than direct lending. Fitch noted that “the BSL market has significantly greater exposure” to the company’s restructuring, though it described the overall impact on collateralised loan obligations (CLOs) ...

Core Insights - Genuine Parts Company (GPC) reported third-quarter 2025 adjusted earnings of $1.98 per share, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.02, but showing an increase from $1.88 per share in the same quarter last year [1][10] - The company achieved net sales of $6.26 billion, exceeding the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $6.13 billion, and reflecting a 5% year-over-year growth driven by comparable sales, acquisitions, and favorable forex impacts [2][10] Segmental Performance - The Automotive segment's net sales reached $4 billion, a 5% increase year over year, surpassing the estimate of $3.87 billion, with comparable sales growing 1.6% and EBITDA increasing 5.9% to $335 million, resulting in an EBITDA margin of 8.4% [3] - The Industrial Parts segment reported net sales of $2.3 billion, up 4.6% year over year, exceeding the estimate of $2.24 billion, with comparable sales rising 3.7% and EBITDA growing 6.6% to $285 million, achieving a margin of 12.6% [4] Financial Performance - As of September 30, 2025, the company had cash and cash equivalents of $431 million, down from $480 million at the end of 2024, with long-term debt standing at $3.75 billion [5] 2025 Guidance - Genuine Parts raised its overall sales growth expectation for 2025 to 3-4% from the previous 1-3%, with automotive sales anticipated to grow 4-5% compared to the earlier forecast of 1.5-3.5%, and industrial sales growth expectations increased to 2-3% from 1-3% [6] - The company now projects adjusted earnings per share between $7.50 and $7.75, maintaining the operating cash flow guidance of $1.1-$1.3 billion and free cash flow projection of $700-$900 million [7] Zacks Rank & Other Key Picks - Genuine Parts currently holds a Zacks Rank 2 (Buy), with other notable stocks in the automotive sector including BRP Inc., Mobileye Global Inc., and Autoliv Inc., with BRP and Mobileye holding a Zacks Rank 1 (Strong Buy) [8]

Core Insights - LKQ Corporation has partnered with Ecobility Services GmbH to implement a large-scale rooftop solar power system at its logistics centers in Germany, marking a significant step in its sustainability strategy [1][4] - The solar system will cover over 12,000 square meters, featuring more than 6,000 photovoltaic modules, and is expected to generate approximately 2.7 gigawatt hours of electricity annually, meeting up to 50% of the site's energy demand [2][3] - The initiative is projected to save up to 1,000 metric tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions per year compared to conventional grid electricity [2] Company Overview - LKQ Corporation is a leading provider of alternative and specialty parts for automobiles, with operations in North America, Europe, and Taiwan, offering a wide range of recycled and aftermarket parts [5] - Ecobility Services GmbH specializes in sustainability-focused services aimed at improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions in commercial and industrial operations [6] Project Details - The project will be executed through a 20-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), with installation expected to begin in October and be completed by mid-2026 [1][3] - Ecobility Services GmbH will manage the planning, installation, operation, and maintenance of the solar system throughout the agreement's duration [3] - This initiative is part of LKQ's broader roadmap to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, which includes energy optimization, transitioning to electric fleets, and adopting circular economy practices [4]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total GPC sales for Q3 2025 were $6.3 billion, reflecting a 5% increase year-over-year, with adjusted EBITDA up 10% [4][5] - Adjusted diluted earnings per share were $1.98, a 5% increase from the same period last year [5][22] - Gross margin expanded by 60 basis points to 37.4% compared to the previous year [4][24] Business Segment Performance - Global industrial sales reached $2.3 billion, up approximately 5% year-over-year, with comparable sales growth of about 4% [7][10] - The automotive segment saw sales increase by approximately 5%, with comparable sales growth of about 2% [10][11] - Motion's core MRO and maintenance business, accounting for 80% of Motion sales, was up mid-single digits during the quarter [9] Market Performance - Growth was observed in seven out of fourteen end markets, with notable strength in iron and steel, food products, and fabricated metals [8] - European market conditions remained soft, with total sales flat in local currency and comparable sales down approximately 2% [16] - The Asia-Pacific region experienced double-digit growth in local currency, driven by both organic initiatives and acquisitions [17] Company Strategy and Industry Competition - The company is focused on strategic pricing, sourcing initiatives, and acquisitions to enhance gross margins [4][24] - An operational and strategic review is ongoing, with updates expected in 2026, aimed at differentiating in an evolving landscape [18][19] - The company is actively managing the tariff environment and leveraging supplier partnerships to mitigate cost impacts [6][23] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that end markets remain muted, particularly in Europe, with challenges including tariffs, trade uncertainties, and elevated interest rates [6][22] - The company is narrowing its guidance for 2025, expecting diluted earnings per share in the range of $6.55 - $6.80, and adjusted diluted EPS of $7.50 - $7.75 [29][30] - Management expressed confidence in the fundamentals of the business and the potential for growth despite current market conditions [20][34] Other Important Information - The company has invested approximately $350 million in CapEx for supply chain modernization and IT improvements [28] - A definitive agreement has been signed to acquire Benson Auto Parts, enhancing the company's footprint in Canada [15][16] - The company expects to generate cash from operations in the range of $1.1 billion - $1.3 billion and free cash flow of $700 million - $900 million [33] Q&A Session Summary Question: What accounts for the expected moderation in gross margins for Q4? - Management indicated that the moderation is primarily due to the lapping of acquisition benefits and ongoing cost pressures from tariffs [36] Question: What are the benefits of having the businesses together? - Management highlighted meaningful benefits from operating as one entity, including improved sales effectiveness and technology investments [37][38] Question: What is the same SKU inflation in U.S. NAPA? - Management noted that the benefit to U.S. automotive is around 2.5%, with expectations for slight net benefits in Q4 [44] Question: Are independent owners losing market share? - Management stated that independent owners are managing inventory levels effectively and are not losing market share [67] Question: How should the fourth quarter outlook inform expectations for 2026? - Management refrained from providing specific guidance for 2026 but indicated that improvements in SG&A and gross margins are expected to continue [90]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total sales for Genuine Parts Company (GPC) in Q3 2025 were $6.3 billion, reflecting a 5% increase year-over-year, with adjusted EBITDA up 10% [5][6][21] - Adjusted diluted earnings per share (EPS) reached $1.98, a 5% increase from the same period last year [6][21] - Gross margin expanded by 60 basis points to 37.4%, driven by strategic pricing and sourcing initiatives [5][24] Business Segment Data and Key Metrics Changes - Global industrial sales were $2.3 billion, up approximately 5% year-over-year, with comparable sales growth of about 4% [7][11] - The automotive segment saw sales increase by approximately 5%, with comparable sales growth of about 2% [11][12] - Motion's core MRO and maintenance business, accounting for 80% of Motion sales, was up mid-single digits during the quarter [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Growth was observed in seven out of fourteen end markets, up from five in the previous quarter, with notable strength in iron and steel, food products, and fabricated metals [9] - European market conditions remained soft, with total sales flat in local currency and comparable sales down approximately 2% [16] - The Asia-Pacific region experienced double-digit growth in local currency, with total sales increasing approximately 10% [17] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on operational and strategic reviews to enhance differentiation in a changing landscape, with updates expected in 2026 [18][19] - GPC is actively managing the business to offset inflationary pressures and is committed to strategic acquisitions, such as the planned acquisition of Benson Auto Parts in Canada [15][27] - The company aims to leverage its size and scale to enhance procurement and operational efficiencies [48] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that end markets remain muted, particularly in Europe, but expressed confidence in the company's resilience and adaptability [6][19] - The outlook for 2025 was updated, expecting diluted EPS in the range of $6.55 to $6.80, with adjusted diluted EPS between $7.50 and $7.75 [28][30] - The company anticipates continued earnings growth in Q4, despite a more cautious market environment [34] Other Important Information - The company generated approximately $510 million in cash from operations and $160 million of free cash flow in the first nine months of 2025 [26] - GPC has returned $421 million to shareholders through dividends year-to-date [28] - The company expects to incur restructuring expenses in the range of $180 million to $210 million for 2025 [32] Q&A Session Summary Question: What accounts for the expected moderation in gross margins for Q4? - Management indicated that the moderation is primarily due to the lapping of acquisition benefits and ongoing cost pressures [36][37] Question: What are the benefits of having the businesses together? - Management highlighted meaningful benefits from integration, including improved sales effectiveness and technology investments [38][39] Question: What was the same SKU inflation in U.S. NAPA? - Management noted that the inflation impact is around 2.5% for U.S. automotive and slightly higher for Motion, with expectations for continued low single-digit benefits [43][44] Question: How is the company managing inventory levels with independent owners? - Management emphasized ongoing support for independent owners to optimize inventory and cash flow management [57][68] Question: What is the outlook for inflation and its impact on pricing? - Management expects inflation to remain in the 2% to 3% range, with a balanced approach to passing along price increases [72][75] Question: How should the fourth quarter outlook inform expectations for 2026? - Management refrained from providing specific guidance for 2026 but indicated that strong momentum and cost management efforts would continue to support growth [85][86]

Accessibility StatementSkip Navigation ATLANTA, Oct. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Genuine Parts Company (NYSE: GPC), a leading global service provider of automotive and industrial replacement parts and value-added solutions, announced today its results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2025. "Our third quarter results were in line with our expectations and demonstrate the ongoing execution of our strategic initiatives," said Will Stengel, President and Chief Executive Officer. "We continue to proactive ...