Core Insights - Yamaha Motor Co Ltd aims for a 25% growth in exports from India this year, focusing on expanding its international market presence [1][7][6] - The Chennai factory will serve as the primary export hub, targeting advanced markets such as the US, Europe, and Japan [2][7] - The company has successfully started exporting to Europe and continues to invest in the Chennai plant to meet global standards [5][7] Export Strategy - Yamaha exports to approximately 55 countries and is actively exploring new markets to enhance its export potential [6][7] - The company reported a significant increase in exports, achieving a 33.4% growth with 295,728 units exported in 2024-25 compared to 221,736 units in 2023-24 [7] - A diverse range of models is exported from the Chennai factory, including FZ V2, FZ V3, FZ V4, Crux, Saluto, Aerox 155, Ray ZR 125 Fi Hybrid, and Fascino 125 Fi Hybrid [5][7]

Core Points - Yamaha Motor announced the launch of two new electric scooter models in India, the AEROX E and the EC-06, scheduled for November 2025 [2][9] - The AEROX E is an electric sport scooter developed in-house, aimed at establishing a premium brand image in India's EV market [3][6] - The EC-06 is developed in collaboration with River Mobility and targets a broader customer base with a stylish design [4][5] Company Initiatives - The launch of the AEROX E and EC-06 is part of Yamaha's strategy to achieve carbon neutrality in Scope 3 emissions by 2050 [6][7] - The AEROX E is positioned as a high value-added model in line with Yamaha's premium segment strategy for the ASEAN region and emerging markets [3] - The EC-06 represents the first product from the partnership between Yamaha and River Mobility, which began with an investment in January 2024 [5]

Core Insights - The roundtable discussion at EICMA focused on the evolving landscape of electric off-road motorcycles, emphasizing the balance between performance and control [1][8] - The unveiling of the SX-E60 by Zhejiang Apollo Sports Technology Co., Ltd. (Apollo) highlights the company's commitment to innovation in the electric motorcycle market [1][21] Performance and Control - Professional riders defined performance as encompassing speed, power, and the ability to customize bikes for individual riding styles and terrain [5][6] - Key features for enhancing performance include tunability, programmable modes, and safety controls, which are essential for an optimal riding experience [5][6] - The balance between performance and control is critical in racing, with control being paramount for safety and consistency [7][8] SX-E60 Specifications - The SX-E60 boasts 81 horsepower and 1080Nm of torque, making it capable of handling various terrains [9][11] - Weighing 108 kg, the bike enhances maneuverability and reduces rider fatigue [11] - Features include rapid battery swapping in three minutes and a Smart Cloud system for real-time data logging and customizable riding modes [11][13] Dealer Insights - Dealers noted a growing demand for control features among novice riders, indicating a shift in customer preferences towards manageable and customizable experiences [14][15] - The SX-E60 aligns with market demands by balancing high performance with user-friendly technology, crucial for the maturing electric motorcycle market [15] Future Outlook - Participants discussed the potential for intelligent tuning and AI learning to shape the future of electric off-road motorcycles [16] - The RFN Warrior model is seen as a pivotal development that could redefine high-end electric dirt bikes and solidify RFN's leadership in innovation [17] Conclusion - The introduction of the SX-E60 represents a transformative moment in the electric off-road motorcycle market, emphasizing infinite control and adaptability [21]

Core Insights - Harley-Davidson Inc. shares fell over 5% despite reporting third-quarter results that significantly exceeded expectations, driven by a transformation in its financial services division [1] Financial Performance - The company reported adjusted earnings of $3.10 per share, surpassing the consensus estimate of $1.58, while revenue increased by 17% year-over-year to $1.34 billion, exceeding estimates of $1.01 billion [2] - The strong performance was largely attributed to the completion of the Harley-Davidson Financial Services transaction with KKR and PIMCO, which transitioned the unit to a capital-light, lower-risk structure [2] Market Trends - Global motorcycle retail sales declined by 6% compared to the previous year, with North America down 5% and international markets down 9%, reflecting weaker consumer confidence and higher interest rates [3] - The motorcycle segment (HDMC) experienced a 23% revenue increase as global shipments rose by 33%, although the operating income margin for HDMC decreased to 5.0% from 6.3% a year ago [3] Future Outlook - Management indicated that the HDFS deal is expected to generate approximately $1.2 billion to $1.25 billion in discretionary cash by the end of the first quarter of 2026 [3]

Core Viewpoint - Harley-Davidson reported strong third-quarter earnings that exceeded expectations, but the stock price declined due to concerns over falling motorcycle sales [2][3][4]. Financial Performance - Harley-Davidson announced third-quarter earnings per share (EPS) of $3.10 from sales of $1.3 billion, surpassing Wall Street's expectations of EPS of $1.53 from sales of $1 billion [3][4]. - The company's financial services unit significantly contributed to profits, with operating profit rising from $77 million to $439 million year over year [4][6]. - Despite the strong overall results, motorcycle retail sales decreased by 6% year over year, and operating income from the motorcycle business fell by $1 million to $54 million [4][6]. Strategic Insights - The CEO highlighted the positive impact of the Harley-Davidson Financial Services (HDFS) transaction on the overall business model, emphasizing the importance of dealer success for the company's growth [5][6]. - Harley-Davidson's stock has struggled, down approximately 20% over the past five years, with sales expected to decline from $4.9 billion in 2022 to $3.7 billion in 2025 [6][7].

Core Insights - Harley-Davidson reported revenue of $1.08 billion for the quarter ended September 2025, reflecting a year-over-year increase of 22.5% and exceeding the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 7.98% [1] - The company's earnings per share (EPS) reached $3.10, a significant increase from $0.91 in the same quarter last year, resulting in an EPS surprise of 124.64% compared to the consensus estimate of $1.38 [1] Financial Performance Metrics - Total worldwide retail sales of Harley-Davidson motorcycles were 33,984, slightly below the estimated 34,506 [4] - Worldwide motorcycle shipments totaled 36,524, surpassing the average estimate of 33,182 [4] - Revenue from motorcycles and related products was $1.07 billion, exceeding the average estimate of $999.74 million, and representing a year-over-year change of 22.5% [4] - Revenue from motorcycles was $821.86 million, significantly higher than the estimated $734.64 million, marking a 33.5% increase year-over-year [4] - Revenue from parts and accessories was $167.25 million, slightly below the estimated $172.45 million, reflecting a 4% decrease compared to the previous year [4] - Financial services revenue was $261 million, falling short of the average estimate of $402.76 million, with a year-over-year decline of 3% [4] Stock Performance - Over the past month, Harley-Davidson shares returned 2.2%, slightly outperforming the Zacks S&P 500 composite's return of 2.1% [3] - The stock currently holds a Zacks Rank 5 (Strong Sell), indicating potential underperformance in the near term [3]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consolidated revenue in Q3 2025 increased by 17%, driven by a 23% increase in HDMC revenue, which rose by $198 million compared to the prior year [16][20] - Consolidated operating income for Q3 was $475 million, primarily influenced by HDFS operating income, which was positively impacted by the HDFS transaction [16][22] - Earnings per share for Q3 was $3.10, with global retail down 6% [17][30] - HDFS revenue decreased by 3%, while LiveWire revenue increased by 16% [16][30] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - HDMC's operating income decreased by 2% year-over-year, while LiveWire reported an operating loss of $18 million [16][30] - HDMC gross margin was 26.4%, down from 30.1% in the prior year, due to unfavorable operating leverage and increased tariffs [21][22] - HDFS's operating income increased by 472% year-over-year, driven by a lower provision for credit losses and higher other income [26][28] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Global retail was down 6%, with North America down 5% and international markets down 9% [17][30] - In North America, the Softail family saw a 9% increase, while Adventure Touring bikes were up 4% [18][19] - EMEA retail was down 17%, but non-core segments like Adventure Touring and Nightster motorcycles showed strong growth [19][20] - In Latin America, retail was up 16%, marking the first quarter of growth since Q3 2024 [19][20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on improving dealer health and profitability, with immediate actions to enhance motorcycle inventory management and introduce market-responsive promotions [5][6] - The HDFS transaction aims to transform the business into a capital-light model, unlocking $1.2 to $1.25 billion in discretionary cash [14][15] - Future strategies include enhancing product accessibility, improving speed to market, and focusing on cost and capital efficiency [9][10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed disappointment in Q3 results but highlighted the strategic value of the HDFS transaction [6][16] - The current macro environment is challenging, with high interest rates and inflation impacting consumer confidence [17][30] - Management is optimistic about future product launches and the potential to attract younger riders through new offerings [36][38] Other Important Information - The company plans to use proceeds from the HDFS transaction for debt reduction, share buybacks, and organic growth initiatives [32][31] - Total cash and cash equivalents at the end of Q3 were $1.8 billion, down $469 million from the previous year [31] Q&A Session Summary Question: Thoughts on demographic headwinds facing Harley-Davidson - Management acknowledged the need to attract younger riders and emphasized the importance of a fun and welcoming dealership experience [36][37] Question: Elaboration on market-responsive promotions - Management indicated that high dealer inventory levels necessitate promotional activities to drive sales, particularly for Touring models [39][40] Question: Impact of the HDFS transaction on operating income - Management confirmed that the transaction is expected to provide a $275-$300 million operating income benefit in the second half of the year [44][46] Question: Expectations for fourth quarter retail performance - Management noted improvements in dealer traffic but refrained from providing specific guidance due to market uncertainties [57][58] Question: Shipment expectations for 2026 - Management indicated that inventory levels are being managed carefully, with a focus on reducing Touring inventory while preparing for new model launches [52][54]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consolidated revenue in Q3 increased by 17%, driven by a 23% increase in HDMC revenue, amounting to an additional $198 million compared to the prior year [23] - Consolidated operating income for Q3 was $475 million, primarily influenced by the HDFS transaction, with an operating income margin of 35.4%, significantly up from 9.2% in the same quarter last year [24] - Earnings per share for Q3 was reported at $3.1, with a decline in global retail by 6% [25] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - HDMC revenue rose by 23% in Q3, with motorcycle shipments up 33% to 36,500 units, while HDFS revenue decreased by 3% and LiveWire revenue increased by 16% [24][25] - LiveWire reported a consolidated operating loss of $18 million, but improved its operating loss by 30% or $8 million compared to the previous year [41] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Global retail was down 6%, with North America down 5% and international markets down 9%, reflecting soft demand due to high interest rates and inflation concerns [25] - In North America, the Softail family saw a growth of 9%, while Adventure Touring bikes increased by 4% [25][26] - In Latin America, retail was up 16%, marking the first quarter of growth for the region since 2024 [29] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on improving dealer health and profitability, with immediate actions to enhance motorcycle inventory management and introduce market-responsive promotions [6][7] - The strategic partnership with KKR and PIMCO aims to transform HDFS into a capital-light model, unlocking $1.2 billion to $1.25 billion in discretionary cash through 2026 [21][22] - Future product offerings will balance aspiration with accessibility to attract new riders, with a focus on affordability and speed to market [14][15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed disappointment in the Motor Company's results but highlighted the positive impact of the HDFS transaction [10] - The current macro environment is challenging, with high interest rates affecting consumer confidence, but there is optimism about improving dealer engagement and sales performance [25][46] - The company plans to provide more details on its strategy and expectations in the spring of next year [45] Other Important Information - Global dealer motorcycle inventories decreased by 13% compared to the end of 2024, with a commitment to further reduce inventory levels [30] - The company has returned $1.7 billion to shareholders through share repurchases and dividends since the start of 2022 [43] Q&A Session Summary Question: How does the company plan to address demographic headwinds? - Management acknowledged the need to attract younger riders and plans to enhance the brand's image and product offerings to make them more appealing to younger demographics [50][54] Question: Can you elaborate on market-responsive customer promotions? - Management indicated that high dealer inventory levels necessitate immediate promotional actions, including local marketing initiatives and lower APR financing options to drive sales [56][60] Question: What is the expected impact of the HDFS transaction on future operating income? - Management confirmed that the transaction is expected to provide significant operating income benefits, with $275 million to $300 million anticipated in the second half of the year [65][68] Question: What are the shipment expectations for 2026? - Management indicated that while they are not providing specific guidance for 2026, they expect to continue reducing dealer inventory and improving sales performance [71][75] Question: How is the company addressing the current retail environment? - Management noted that they are seeing sequential improvements in dealer traffic and are focused on enhancing marketing strategies to drive sales [86]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consolidated revenue in Q3 increased by 17%, driven by a 23% increase in HDMC revenue, amounting to an additional $198 million compared to the prior year [23] - Consolidated operating income for Q3 was $475 million, primarily influenced by the HDFS transaction, with an operating income margin of 35.4%, significantly up from 9.2% in the same quarter last year [24] - Earnings per share for Q3 was reported at $3.1, while global retail sales decreased by 6% [25] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - HDMC revenue rose by 23% in Q3, with motorcycle shipments increasing by 33% to 36,500 units [31] - HDFS revenue decreased by 3%, while LiveWire revenue increased by 16% [24] - LiveWire reported a consolidated operating loss of $18 million, but improved its cash usage by 39% compared to the previous year [40] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - North American retail sales were down 5%, while international markets saw a decline of 9%, attributed to soft demand and high interest rates [25] - In Latin America, retail sales increased by 16%, marking the first quarter of growth since 2024 [29] - The U.S. market share for HD in the large cruiser category expanded from 61% in 2024 to 68% in 2025 [30] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on improving dealer health and profitability, emphasizing the importance of a strong dealer network [6][12] - Plans include enhancing motorcycle inventory management, introducing market-responsive promotions, and reviewing e-commerce strategies [7][8] - The HDFS transaction aims to transform the business into a capital-light model, unlocking $1.2 billion to $1.25 billion in discretionary cash through 2026 [21][22] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed disappointment with the Motor Company results but highlighted the positive impact of the HDFS transaction [10] - The current macro environment is challenging, with a focus on affordability and cost efficiency to attract new riders [14][15] - Future strategies will include simplifying marketing programs and enhancing the overall riding experience [46][47] Other Important Information - The company plans to use proceeds from the HDFS transaction for debt reduction, share buybacks, and organic growth initiatives [43][44] - Total cash and cash equivalents at the end of Q3 were $1.8 billion, down $469 million from the previous year [42] Q&A Session Summary Question: Demographic headwinds facing Harley Davidson - Management acknowledged the need to attract younger riders and plans to make the brand more fun and accessible through product offerings and marketing [50][51][53] Question: Market responsive customer promotions - Management discussed the importance of addressing high dealer inventory levels and implementing local promotional activities to drive sales [55][56] Question: Impact of the HDFS transaction on operating income - Management confirmed that the transaction is expected to provide a significant operating income benefit, with $275 million to $300 million anticipated in the second half of the year [62][65] Question: Expectations for 2026 shipments and inventory - Management indicated that while they are not providing specific guidance for 2026, they expect to continue reducing dealer inventory levels [68][72] Question: Fourth quarter retail expectations - Management refrained from providing specific guidance but noted improvements in dealer traffic and sales dynamics [82][84] Question: Theoretical question on shipments and margin expansion - Management emphasized that margin expansion would depend on reversing current negative trends and highlighted the importance of pricing strategies and marketing effectiveness [87][89]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consolidated revenue in Q3 2025 increased by 17%, driven by a 23% increase in HDMC revenue, which was up $198 million compared to the prior year [16][22] - Consolidated operating income for Q3 was $475 million, primarily influenced by the HDFS transaction, while HDMC operating income decreased by 2% year-over-year [16][17] - Earnings per share for Q3 was $3.10, with a consolidated operating income margin of 35.4%, significantly up from 9.2% in the same quarter last year [17][23] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - HDMC revenue rose by 23% in Q3, with motorcycle shipments up 33% to 36,500 units, while HDFS revenue decreased by 3% [16][22] - LiveWire revenue increased by 16%, but the segment reported an operating loss of $18 million [16][30] - HDFS's operating income surged by 472% year-over-year, primarily due to the HDFS transaction, with a significant benefit from the reversal of the allowance for credit losses [27][29] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Global retail sales were down 6%, with North America down 5% and international markets down 9%, reflecting soft demand amid high interest rates and inflation concerns [17][18] - In North America, the Softail family saw a 9% increase in sales, while Adventure Touring bikes were up 4% [18][20] - Latin America experienced a 16% increase in retail sales, marking the first quarter of growth since Q3 2024 [19][20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on improving dealer health and profitability, with immediate actions including better inventory management and market-responsive promotions [5][6] - There is a commitment to enhancing the product portfolio to balance aspiration with accessibility, particularly in light of the current interest rate environment [9][10] - The HDFS transaction aims to transform the business into a capital-light model, unlocking $1.2-$1.25 billion in discretionary cash through Q1 2026 [14][15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed disappointment with the motor company's results but highlighted the positive impact of the HDFS transaction [6][16] - The CEO emphasized the need to attract younger riders and make the brand more accessible and fun [40][42] - The company plans to continue focusing on cost and capital efficiency while enhancing the dealer network's health [9][10][37] Other Important Information - The company has committed to returning capital to shareholders, having repurchased 6.8 million shares for $187 million year-to-date [32][33] - The global tariff environment remains uncertain, with an estimated full-year impact from tariffs expected to be between $55-$75 million [26][27] Q&A Session Summary Question: How does the company plan to address demographic headwinds? - The CEO noted the need to make the brand more fun and accessible, with plans to introduce lighter and more affordable bikes to attract younger riders [40][42] Question: Can you elaborate on market-responsive promotions? - Management indicated that high dealer inventory levels necessitate promotional activities to drive sales, particularly for touring models [43][44] Question: What is the expected impact of the HDFS transaction on future earnings? - The company confirmed that the transaction is expected to provide a $275-$300 million operating income benefit in the second half of the year [50][54] Question: What are the shipment expectations for 2026? - Management indicated that while they are not providing specific guidance for 2026, they expect to continue reducing dealer inventory and improving sales dynamics [56][61] Question: How is the company addressing inventory levels? - The company has seen a significant reduction in dealer inventory, with expectations to continue this trend into the next year [57][63]