Core Insights - National Presto Industries, Inc. (NPK) shares have declined 5.4% since the earnings report for the quarter ended September 28, 2025, underperforming the S&P 500 index, which grew by 2.3% during the same period [1] - The company reported earnings per share (EPS) of 74 cents for Q3 2025, down from $1.13 a year ago, while net sales increased by 25.7% to $115.5 million, driven by the Defense segment [2] - Despite sales growth, net earnings fell 34.2% year over year to $5.3 million from $8.1 million [2] Segment Performance - The Defense segment experienced a revenue increase of $25.8 million, or 38.6% year over year, attributed to higher shipments from backlog and improved operating earnings of $1.7 million [3] - The Housewares/Small Appliance segment saw a revenue decline of $2.3 million, a 9.2% drop, primarily due to retailer resistance against tariff-driven price increases, resulting in substantial operating losses [4] - The Startup Safety segment reported nominal sales and incurred a loss during the quarter, indicating it remains in early-stage development with ongoing investment needs [6] Management Commentary - The president of National Presto, Maryjo Cohen, highlighted the contrasting performance between segments, noting that the Defense segment benefited from backlog-driven shipments, while the Housewares segment faced challenges from tariff-related issues [5] - The company indicated that tariffs were treated as period costs, contributing to ongoing losses in the Housewares/Small Appliance unit [5]

Core Viewpoint - National Presto Industries, Inc. has experienced a significant decline in stock performance despite reporting strong earnings growth, particularly in its Defense segment, while facing challenges in consumer-facing segments due to tariffs and elevated material costs [1][5][6]. Financial Performance - The company reported first-quarter 2025 earnings per share of $1.07, up from 92 cents a year ago [2]. - Net sales reached $103.6 million, a 35.2% increase from $76.7 million in the prior-year period [2]. - Net earnings rose to $7.6 million, reflecting a 15.9% increase from $6.6 million in the first quarter of 2024 [2]. Segment Performance - The Defense segment saw sales surge by $25.9 million, or 47.1%, driven by increased backlog shipments [3]. - Operating earnings in the Defense segment climbed by $4.9 million or 58.6% [3]. - The Housewares/Small Appliance and Safety segments showed only nominal gains, with the Small Appliance business posting an operating loss due to unfavorable product mix and elevated material costs [4]. Management Insights - President Maryjo Cohen highlighted Defense growth as the main driver of overall performance, attributing it to increased shipments from backlog [5]. - Challenges in the Housewares segment were noted, particularly due to the impact of "Trump tariffs" set at 145% on certain imported goods, which significantly affected earnings [5]. - The company has paused new product announcements and purchasing activity in response to these challenges [5]. Cost Environment - Elevated material costs and punitive tariff rates have pressured margins, especially in the Housewares/Small Appliance segment [6]. - Tariff-related expenses were expensed immediately, further impacting profitability [6]. - The Safety segment continued to be a drag on overall profitability despite improved sales [6]. Portfolio Income - The company's portfolio earnings were described as "nominal" due to capital allocation needs in the Defense business [7]. - Increased inventory investments to support expanded Defense contracts limited funds available for interest or dividend-yielding instruments [7].