Knowles(US:KN)2025-04-25 00:59Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q1 2025, the company reported revenue of $132 million, which is at the high end of the guided range, and EPS of $0.18, also at the midpoint of guidance [15][26] - Gross margins for Q1 were 48.7%, down 450 basis points year-over-year, primarily due to a supply agreement impacting margins and unfavorable customer mix [27] - Cash from operations exceeded the high end of guidance, driven by higher than expected customer prepayments, with $1 million generated in Q1 [30][32] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Medtech and specialty audio revenue was $60 million in Q1, slightly up year-over-year but seasonally down from Q4 [16][26] - Precision Device segment revenue was $73 million, flat compared to Q4, with expectations for growth as production challenges are addressed [19][20] - The company anticipates year-over-year revenue growth accelerating in Q2, supported by a strong backlog in medtech and specialty audio [18][24] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company estimates that less than 5% of revenue is subject to current tariffs, with less than 3% of cost of goods sold impacted [9][10] - Inventory levels at distributors are normalizing, leading to increased order activity, particularly in the industrial market [48][75] - The medtech market is expected to remain resilient, with historical data showing modest impacts during economic downturns [12][17] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on maintaining growth in earnings and revenue despite tariff challenges, leveraging its proximity manufacturing strategy [7][8] - There is a strong emphasis on innovation and partnerships in the medtech sector, with expectations for continued growth in 2025 [18][24] - The company is exploring acquisition opportunities and plans to maintain a manageable debt level while generating robust cash flow [22][23] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to navigate the current tariff environment with minimal impact on business [50] - The outlook for Q2 is positive, with expectations for revenue between $135 million and $145 million and EPS projected between $0.21 and $0.25 [33][34] - Management noted strong design wins and increasing backlog, indicating a solid foundation for growth in 2025 [24][78] Other Important Information - The company repurchased $5 million in shares and reduced debt by $15 million during Q1 [22][31] - The upcoming Investor Day on May 13 will provide further insights into future growth plans and competitive advantages [24][85] Q&A Session Summary Question: How is the company addressing customer exposure in uncertain times? - Management indicated that there has been no change in demand, with expectations for Q2 being higher than previously anticipated [42][44] Question: Any updates on the $75 million capacitor order for the energy market? - The company received a substantial prepayment for this order, indicating strong customer commitment and no expected delivery impacts [51][52] Question: What is the expected trajectory for gross margins in Q2 and Q4? - Management expects significant sequential improvement in gross margins, driven by increased capacity utilization and better customer mix [60][64] Question: Is there potential for gaining market share from competitors? - Management noted an increase in inquiries from customers looking for reliable supply sources, particularly in the industrial space [66][69] Question: Can you comment on bookings and receivables? - Bookings were strong, with a book-to-bill ratio above 1.15, and receivables were up due to timing of customer collections, not indicating any collection issues [73][79]