American Superconductor (AMSC) - 2024 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenue for Q1 2024 was $40.3 million, a growth of over 30% compared to $30.3 million in Q1 2023 [13][10] - Gross margin increased to 30% from 21% in the year-ago quarter, driven by higher revenues and improved pricing [14][13] - Net loss for Q1 2024 was $2.5 million or $0.07 per share, compared to a net loss of $5.4 million or $0.19 per share in the previous year [15][16] - Non-GAAP net income for Q1 2024 was $3 million or $0.09 per share, compared to a non-GAAP net loss of $2.1 million or $0.08 per share in Q1 2023 [16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Grid business unit accounted for 80% of total revenues, with a 26% increase year-over-year [13] - Wind business unit revenues increased by 76% year-over-year, driven by ECS shipments [13][10] - The company reported a record $75 million order for ship protection systems from the Royal Canadian Navy [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company ended Q1 2024 with a 12-month backlog of $160 million and a total backlog of $250 million, up from $140 million at the start of the year [11][19] - New Energy Power Systems orders totaled approximately $33 million, reflecting strong contributions from various sectors [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The acquisition of NWL is expected to accelerate profitable growth and broaden product offerings, particularly in the industrial and military sectors [22][24] - The company aims to expand its military footprint within the Department of Defense, especially the U.S. Navy, by integrating NWL's capabilities [23][25] - The strategic focus is on building a more predictable and diversified business, with expectations for sustainable profitability [25][26] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the company's position, citing strong orders momentum and financial results [26][27] - The company anticipates continued growth driven by U.S. policies and momentum in wind and ship businesses [27][28] - Management highlighted the potential for doubling revenue from fiscal 2021 levels, aiming for $50 million per quarter [27] Other Important Information - The company generated $3.1 million of operating cash flow in Q1 2024, with cash and equivalents totaling $95.5 million [16][15] - The NWL acquisition was completed for approximately $61.4 million, expected to positively impact financial performance [18][21] Q&A Session Summary Question: Trends impacting NWL's business - Management noted that NWL's recent performance has been stronger than the three-year average, with improving margins [32] Question: Inox order cadence - Management confirmed that Inox's backlog stands at over 2.7 gigawatts, with products expected to be shipped within the fiscal year [34] Question: Synergies from NWL acquisition - Management highlighted significant synergies, particularly in expanding customer access in the industrial sector and enhancing military capabilities [38][39] Question: Integration timeline for NWL - Management indicated that integration would be straightforward due to NWL's established operations and culture, with a few months needed for full financial integration [41][42] Question: Military vs. industrial revenue mix for NWL - Management estimated that 20% to 30% of NWL's business is military, with expectations for significant growth in this area [46]