Powell Industries (POWL) FY Conference Summary Company Overview - Powell Industries is an electrical distribution company specializing in industrial electrical components, primarily located in the Gulf Coast and Houston [3][4] - The company celebrated its 70th anniversary and reported revenues exceeding $1 billion last year [4] Product and Service Offerings - Powell manufactures medium and low voltage switchgear and circuit breakers, with a focus on engineered-to-order (ETO) operations [6][9] - The company is agnostic to the power source (solar, wind, coal, hydro) and the application of power [10][11] - Powell's product range includes power control rooms and offshore modules, which are customized for specific electrical configurations [14][15] Market Segmentation - Core industrial markets account for 50-60% of revenue, including sectors like LNG, carbon capture, hydrogen, and legacy refineries [19][20] - The utility sector is also significant, focusing on generation and distribution, with no current involvement in transmission [30] - Data centers have emerged as a new sector, contributing approximately 15% of total revenue, with half of that attributed to data centers [22][45] Financial Performance - The company reported over $400 million in cash and zero debt as of the last fiscal quarter [32] - Powell has a robust R&D pipeline, with recent product launches across various sectors [33] - The backlog surpassed $1 billion in 2023, with a steady order cadence and a book-to-bill ratio of 1.1 in 2024 [40][41] Strategic Focus - Powell aims to enhance its automation and control solutions, recently acquiring a UK operation called REM Stack [19][28] - The company is focused on organic and inorganic growth, with plans to expand its product portfolio and services [30][31] - Powell's business model emphasizes flexibility and customer collaboration, allowing for on-site adjustments during projects [24][26] Geographic Revenue Distribution - Over 80% of revenues are generated in the United States, with a significant portion adhering to ANSI electrical standards [42][43] - International revenue includes operations in Canada and the UK, with a growing presence in IEC standards [13][43] Challenges and Risks - The company is monitoring potential tariff impacts, particularly concerning materials sourced from India and copper price fluctuations [50][52] - Powell has hedged against copper price spikes but remains vigilant about future supply chain challenges [51][53] Conclusion - Powell Industries is well-positioned in the electrical distribution market, with a strong financial foundation, diverse product offerings, and a strategic focus on growth and innovation across various sectors [46]

Key Takeaways Caterpillar and Hunt Energy formed a long-term collaboration to power data centers.The first project in Texas could launch a program delivering 1 GW of capacity.CAT shares have risen 15.3% this year, outpacing the S&P 500's 8.5% gain.Caterpillar Inc. (CAT) and Hunt Energy Company, L.P. have entered into a long-term strategic collaboration to meet the surging power needs of data centers. With the sector demanding uninterrupted or “always on” energy, the partnership aims to deliver scalable, eff ...

August 18, 2025 11:54 AM GMT M Idea Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC Christopher Snyder, CFA Equity Analyst Chris.Snyder@morganstanley.com +1 212 761-4470 Brandon Knutson Equity Analyst Brandon.Knutson@morganstanley.com +1 212 761-4168 Toby Okwara Equity Analyst Toby.Okwara@morganstanley.com +1 212 761-1693 Christine Yao Research Associate Christine.Yao@morganstanley.com +1 212 761-4193 Multi-Industry Morgan Stanley does and seeks to do business with companies covered in Morgan Stanley Research. As a result, invest ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sales in Q2 2025 were down 1.2% on an organic basis compared to the prior year, aligning with expectations [6][11] - Adjusted earnings per share increased by 8.3% to $2.48 [11] - Adjusted EBITDA margin was 22%, down 20 basis points year-over-year [11] - Free cash flow generated in Q2 was $493 million, with $368.5 million related to an accounts receivable securitization program [11][25] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - **Automation and Motion Control (AMC)**: Sales decreased by 3.4% year-over-year, primarily due to weakness in the medical end market and project timing [16][18] - **Industrial Powertrain Solutions (IPS)**: Sales were down 4.4% year-over-year, attributed to project timing impacts in Metals and Mining [20][21] - **Power Efficiency Solutions (PES)**: Sales increased by 6.5% year-over-year, driven by strong growth in residential and commercial HVAC [23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Orders in AMC declined by 7.5% year-over-year, impacted by a large data center order that slipped into July [19] - IPS orders increased by 3% on a daily basis, with a book-to-bill ratio of 1.01 [22] - PES orders were down 5.4% on a daily basis, consistent with expectations due to anticipated headwinds in residential HVAC [24] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is on track to deliver at least $250 million in cross-sell synergies from recent acquisitions, with a growing funnel of opportunities [12][14] - Focus on longer cycle projects and engineered solutions is expected to drive growth in IPS and AMC segments [20][22] - The company aims to neutralize tariff impacts on adjusted EBITDA and maintain margin neutrality by mid-2026 [27][30] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management remains optimistic about low single-digit sales growth in 2025, supported by a growing backlog and positive order trends [8][33] - The company anticipates a recovery in the medical market and improved conditions in the data center sector [36][71] - Management acknowledges ongoing macroeconomic uncertainties but believes underlying business momentum is positive [33][36] Other Important Information - The accounts receivable securitization program completed in Q2 is expected to provide $4 million in annualized interest savings [25][26] - The gross annual unmitigated cost impact from tariffs is estimated to have decreased from $130 million to approximately $125 million [29][30] Q&A Session Summary Question: Expectations for end market recovery in the second half of the year - Management expects orders to be up mid-single digits in the second half, driven by strong performance in data centers and other solid markets [36][37] Question: Exposure to rare earth magnets and data center wins - Rare earth magnets represent about 1% of sales, but challenges in procurement impacted Q2 performance; however, recovery is expected in Q3 and Q4 [39][40] Question: AMC division margin ramp and backlog visibility - AMC's margin guidance has been widened due to rare earth exposure, with expectations for improved conditions in the medical market and higher shippable backlog [92][93] Question: Competitive position in the data center market - The company is well-positioned in the data center market, focusing on customized solutions, and has a strong order funnel [85][86]

Summary of Key Points from the Expert Call on High Voltage Power Equipment Industry Overview - **Industry**: High Voltage Power Equipment - **Key Drivers**: Demand driven by renewable energy installations, data centers, and potential growth in transmission capital expenditures (capex) Core Insights 1. **Price Increases**: - Price hikes for high voltage power equipment have accelerated, with certain types experiencing over 10% year-over-year increases since June 2025, attributed to tariffs and rising demand from renewables [2][4][5] - General price increases were noted at 3-5% in the first half of 2025, with transformers seeing the largest hikes [4][5] 2. **Strong Demand**: - Demand for high voltage power equipment remains robust year-to-date (YTD), primarily driven by new connections for renewable energy projects, accounting for over 70% of total demand [2][5] - The expert anticipates continued strong demand through 2026/27 due to the push for renewable energy and data center installations [2][5] 3. **Future Demand Dynamics**: - While demand from renewables may plateau, it is expected that new connections for gas-fired and nuclear power plants, along with data centers, will fill the gap [5][6] - The replacement cycle for existing equipment is expected to gain momentum in the coming years, although currently, replacement demand is less than 30% [2][5] 4. **Transmission Capex Growth**: - A forecasted 10% growth in transmission capex for 2025, with potential for stronger growth in subsequent years, contingent on resolving permitting issues [6] - The expert highlighted that regulatory hurdles remain a significant barrier to long-distance transmission network growth [6] 5. **Trade Tariff Impact**: - The impact of trade tariffs on pricing is seen as limited, with operators willing to pay higher prices to secure essential equipment for grid connections [6] - Equipment manufacturers are adjusting prices or negotiating with customers to pass on increased costs due to tariffs [6] 6. **Supply Constraints**: - There has been no noticeable increase in supply for high voltage power equipment YTD, particularly for transformers, primarily due to a lack of skilled labor [6] - Local manufacturers face challenges in ramping up capacity, and there is reluctance among regulated utilities to procure from Chinese manufacturers due to national security concerns [6] Additional Insights - **Market Sentiment**: The expert's views align with a bullish outlook on the demand/supply imbalance for high voltage power equipment in the US, supporting the positive ratings on companies like Hyundai Electric, Hyosung Heavy, and Sieyuan Electric [2][4] - **Long-term Trends**: The expert noted that lead times for high voltage equipment remain extended, indicating ongoing supply chain challenges [5] Conclusion - The high voltage power equipment industry is poised for growth driven by renewable energy and data center demands, despite challenges in supply and regulatory hurdles. The pricing environment is influenced by tariffs, but demand remains strong, suggesting a favorable outlook for key players in the market.

Summary of China Import/Export Tracker and European Capital Goods Industry Overview - The report focuses on the capital goods industry, specifically analyzing 32 product categories relevant to European exports and Chinese imports/exports [3][51]. Key Insights - **Market Share Dynamics**: - Europe currently holds 44% of global capital goods exports, down from 56% in 2005. - China's market share has increased from 6% in 2005 to 22% in 2024, representing a 16 percentage point gain [3][17]. - **Export Growth Trends**: - In June 2025, global export values rose by 21% year-over-year, while import values increased by 9% year-over-year [8]. - Notable growth in Chinese exports includes: - Rail: +46% - Switchgear: +41% - Fibre cable: +40% - Heavy Duty Trucks: +40% - Copper wire: +31% [8][27]. - **Import Declines**: - Significant declines in Chinese imports were observed in: - Tractors: -78% - LED lighting: -40% - Shovel loaders: -39% - Turbochargers: -33% [30]. - **Regional Export Changes**: - Exports to Europe from China have shown substantial increases in categories like switchgear (+99%) and rail (+69%) [32]. - Conversely, exports of marine engines (-34%) and commercial vehicle engines (-27%) have decreased significantly [32]. Competitive Landscape - **Chinese Competition**: - Chinese exports to Europe have grown significantly, particularly in rail and construction equipment, indicating increased competition for European manufacturers [7][10]. - Certain product categories, such as commercial vehicle engines and bearings, have remained relatively insulated from Chinese competition [7]. - **Market Share Risks**: - The report highlights potential risks for European companies in sectors like automotive bearings, energy storage, and construction equipment due to increasing Chinese competition [44][43]. Additional Observations - **Trade Balance Trends**: - China has turned into a net exporter in categories like medium voltage equipment and heat exchangers, while imports have expanded in marine engines [36]. - **Technological Positioning**: - The report notes that the technological positioning of products exported from China may differ significantly from those imported, particularly in high-end industrial robots [54]. - **Long-term Implications**: - The ongoing trends suggest that China is making progress towards self-sufficiency in capital goods, which could impact European exporters negatively, especially in mid- to high-value categories [53]. Conclusion - The analysis indicates a shifting landscape in the capital goods market, with China increasing its competitive presence globally, particularly in Europe. European companies need to be aware of these dynamics and adjust their strategies accordingly to mitigate risks associated with rising Chinese competition.

Investment Rating - The report assigns an "Overweight" (OW) rating to several companies in the Asia Power Equipment and China Utilities sector, indicating a positive outlook for these stocks [8][24]. Core Insights - Investor sentiment remains bullish on the electrification theme, with strong demand for power equipment and a positive outlook for companies like Hyundai Electric and LS Electric [4][5]. - There is a notable divergence in investor views regarding Korean power equipment stocks, with some investors concerned about high valuations after a recent rally, while others see potential upside due to favorable demand dynamics [2][5]. - Huaming Equipment is highlighted as a laggard in the global transformer value chain, with potential for growth given its attractive valuation compared to Korean peers [2][6]. Summary by Sections Investor Positioning - Investors are generally bullish on the electrification theme, holding large-cap names such as Nari Technology and Hyundai Electric [4]. - There has been a recent increase in positioning within the power equipment sector following a pullback in April [4]. - Hyundai Electric is favored for its significant exposure to the US market, while LS Electric is noted for its data center equipment supply [6]. Korean Power Equipment - Global investors have become more receptive to positive views on Korean power equipment, driven by strong demand and reduced trade concerns [4][5]. - Despite a recent rally, valuations for Korean names are considered reasonable compared to global peers [5]. - Key players like Hyundai Electric and LS Electric are highlighted for their growth potential, particularly in high-voltage equipment and data center supplies [6]. Chinese Power Equipment - Interest in Chinese power equipment names is low, with Huaming Equipment gaining attention as a potential recovery play [2][6]. - Investors are cautious about the fundamentals of Chinese utilities, particularly regarding natural gas volume growth and tariff cuts [7]. - Kunlun Energy is noted as a standout among Chinese utilities due to its strong cash position and consistent payout increases [7]. Valuation Comparisons - The report includes a valuation comparison table showing various metrics such as P/E ratios and market caps for companies in the sector, indicating a range of valuations across different firms [8].

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sales increased by 112% organically, driven by the infrastructure vertical, with new products contributing over two points to sales growth [9] - Adjusted operating income grew by 4% year over year, with a return on sales of 20% [9] - Adjusted EPS increased by 10%, and free cash flow grew by 32% [9][15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Systems Protection segment sales increased by 16%, driven by the Track D acquisition, while organic sales were flat [16] - Electrical Connections segment sales rose by 3%, with organic sales up by 4% [18] - Infrastructure sales grew in the mid-teens, with strength in Data Solutions and Power Utilities [10][16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Americas experienced low single-digit sales decline, while Europe was flat and Asia Pacific grew in the high teens [10][16] - Organic orders were up in the mid-teens, with strong double-digit growth in Data Solutions [11][68] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on portfolio transformation, having divested the Thermal Management business and acquired the AVAIL Electrical Products Group [8][28] - The infrastructure vertical is expected to account for over 40% of sales, with Data Solutions and Power Utilities each contributing approximately 20% [29][30] - The company is prioritizing growth through new products, acquisitions, and capacity expansion [11][30] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in strong sales growth in the second half of the year, particularly in infrastructure and data solutions [11][24] - The company is taking steps to mitigate tariff impacts through pricing, productivity, and supply chain actions [11][25] - Overall, management is optimistic about the company's positioning in the electrification, sustainability, and digitalization trends [35] Other Important Information - The company ended the quarter with over $1.3 billion in cash and repaid $390 million of term loans [21] - A quarterly dividend increase of 5% was announced, with significant capital returned to shareholders through share repurchases [23] Q&A Session Summary Question: Comments on the data solutions business and order pace - Management noted strong double-digit growth in data solutions, with a growing backlog providing visibility into the second half [41][42] Question: Contribution and synergies from recent acquisitions - Management confirmed that the AVAIL acquisition will contribute a nickel to EPS and highlighted potential cost synergies from both AVAIL and Track D [52][46] Question: Organic sales outlook and confidence in second half acceleration - Management indicated strong orders and backlog in data solutions and power utilities, expecting growth to accelerate in the second half [57][58] Question: Impact of tariffs on margins - Management expects first half margins to be impacted by tariffs, with a positive flip in the second half as pricing and productivity measures take effect [61][62] Question: Clarification on tariff impacts and pricing strategies - Management stated that the tariff impact is primarily from steel and aluminum, and they are actively managing pricing through various strategies [92][105] Question: Insights on the power utility segment - Management highlighted that power utilities now represent about 20% of sales, with strong growth expected from recent acquisitions [95][96]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a strong first quarter with sales up 112% organically, driven by the infrastructure vertical [11] - Adjusted EPS grew 10% to $0.67, and free cash flow increased by 32% to $44 million [17] - The company raised its full-year sales guidance to 19% to 21% growth and adjusted EPS guidance to $3.30 to $3.13, reflecting strong performance in Data Solutions and Power Utilities [25][26] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Systems Protection segment sales increased by 16%, driven by the Track D acquisition, while organic sales were flat [18] - Electrical Connections segment sales grew by 3%, with organic sales up 4% [20] - Infrastructure vertical sales grew in the mid-teens, while Commercial Resi declined low single digits [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Organic orders were up mid-teens, with strong double-digit growth in Data Solutions [13] - The Americas saw low single-digit growth, while Europe was flat and Asia Pacific grew in the high teens [12] - The infrastructure vertical is expected to account for over 40% of sales, with Data Solutions and Power Utilities each contributing approximately 20% [30] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on portfolio transformation, having divested the Thermal Management business and acquired the AVAIL Electrical Products Group [10][29] - The strategy emphasizes growth in electrical infrastructure, data solutions, and power utilities, aligning with trends in electrification and sustainability [30][31] - The company plans to invest in R&D and capital expenditures to support growth and supply chain resiliency [23] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in strong demand for electrical infrastructure products, anticipating a 50% increase in electricity demand by 2050 [32] - The company is taking steps to mitigate tariff impacts through pricing, productivity, and supply chain actions [13][26] - Management remains optimistic about the second half of the year, expecting strong growth driven by backlog and order strength [60] Other Important Information - The company has a strong balance sheet with over $1.3 billion in cash and $600 million available on its revolver [22] - The company repurchased approximately $250 million in shares year-to-date, exceeding its plan [24] - The recent sustainability report highlighted the company's commitment to reducing CO2 emissions and improving employee satisfaction [34] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide more details on the data solutions business and order demand? - Management indicated strong double-digit growth in data solutions, with a growing backlog providing visibility into the second half of the year [40] Question: What are the contributions and synergies from the recent acquisitions? - The AVAIL acquisition is expected to contribute a nickel to EPS, with strong growth and cost synergies anticipated [51][52] Question: How confident is the company in the second half organic sales growth? - Management expressed confidence in strong orders and backlog, particularly in data solutions and power utilities, which are expected to drive growth [58][60] Question: What is the impact of tariffs on margins and pricing? - Management noted that tariffs are expected to impact margins in the first half, but pricing and productivity measures are anticipated to offset these impacts in the second half [61][62] Question: Can you clarify the order growth and its organic nature? - Management confirmed that organic orders were up mid-teens, with strong contributions from data solutions and infrastructure [68] Question: What is the outlook for the commercial residential segment? - Management revised expectations for commercial residential to flattish growth due to tariff impacts and market uncertainty [90]

nVent First Quarter 2025 Earnings Presentation May 2, 2025 Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements This presentation contains statements that we believe to be "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward looking statements. Without limitation, any statements preceded or followed by or that include the words "targets," "plans," "believes," "expects," "intends," "will," "like ...