Artificial intelligence (AI) stocks have been on sticky ground lately due to concerns about the massive spending on infrastructure and the potential disruptions this technology could bring for software companies. However, it cannot be denied that the proliferation of AI has driven meaningful growth for many companies. Vertiv Holdings (NYSE: VRT), a company that provides thermal management, power management, server racks, and services and software for managing data centers, is one such name that's seeing a ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - First quarter revenues decreased by 0.6% year-over-year but grew approximately 1% when adjusted for foreign exchange [28] - Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was $39.3 million, representing 11.1% of sales, down from 12.2% in the same quarter last year [28] - Adjusted diluted earnings per share decreased to $0.51 from $0.62 year-over-year [29] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Automotive Climate and Comfort Solutions revenue increased by 3.8% year-over-year or 5.3% when excluding foreign exchange effects, driven by strong growth in lumbar and massage comfort solutions [28] - Medical segment revenues increased by 6% year-over-year when adjusted for foreign exchange, primarily due to growth in Europe [28] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The outlook for 2025 annual volumes has declined by 2% compared to previous reports, with a notable 10% decline expected in North America, which constitutes about 40% of the company's business [9][33] - The company is closely monitoring dealer inventory levels and customer demand schedules to adapt to market changes [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on expanding revenue while increasing margins and cash flow, with a strategic emphasis on scaling four core technology platforms: thermal management, air moving devices, pneumatic solutions, and valve systems [12][36] - The company is actively pursuing opportunities in adjacent markets, particularly in the medical sector, leveraging existing technologies without significant incremental investments [15][16] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged increased economic uncertainty due to tariffs but expressed confidence in the company's ability to mitigate impacts and maintain a strong balance sheet [6][10] - The company is committed to driving profitable growth and operational excellence, with plans to optimize production across regions [18][20] Other Important Information - The company received $400 million in new automotive business awards during the quarter, including significant wins with Japanese OEMs and Volvo [24][25] - The company was recognized as General Motors Supplier of the Year for the third time, highlighting strong relationships and innovative technology [27] Q&A Session Summary Question: How much pass-through revenue is incorporated in the guidance? - Management indicated that the impact of tariffs is relatively limited, with only a small portion of the overall business affected, primarily in Mexico and North America [42] Question: Why is the approach to adjacent markets different this time? - Management clarified that the focus is on scaling existing technologies into adjacent markets rather than developing new products, emphasizing the use of current capital equipment [45] Question: What are the booking dynamics in Q1? - Management stated that the first quarter's new program awards were in line with expectations, despite appearing lower than previous quarters [50] Question: How is the company maintaining its sales guidance despite weaker industry forecasts? - Management explained that while North American volumes are under pressure, favorable foreign exchange impacts and tariff pass-throughs are helping to maintain guidance [51]