Ampco-Pittsburgh(US:AP)2025-03-13 14:30Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Ampco Pittsburgh Corporation reported earnings per common share of $0.16 for Q4 2024 and $0.02 for the full year [5] - Net cash flow from operating activities was $7.5 million for Q4 and $18 million for the full year 2024 [5] - Consolidated net sales for Q4 2024 were $100.9 million, a decline of 6.6% compared to Q4 2023 [21] - Full year 2024 consolidated net sales declined by 1% [21] - Net income attributable to Ampco Pittsburgh for Q4 2024 was $3.1 million, compared to a net loss of $41.8 million in Q4 2023 [26][27] Business Segment Performance - The Air and Liquid Processing segment achieved record sales for 2024, improving by 11% from the prior year [6] - The Forged and Cast Engineered Products segment reported operating income of $1.1 million in Q4 2024, up from breakeven in the prior year [16] - Year-to-date operating income for the Air and Liquid Processing segment was $15.9 million, compared to a loss of $29.1 million in the prior year [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The two largest markets, North America and Europe, remain stable, with Europe experiencing market softness [18] - The company anticipates increased demand in the U.S. due to potential tariffs, slightly offset by lower demand in Mexico and stable demand in Europe [19] Company Strategy and Industry Competition - The company is focusing on addressing deficiencies in the UK operations, which could positively impact annual operating income by at least $5 million [7] - Strategic initiatives are in place to position the company for continued profitability and sustainable long-term performance improvement [20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed dissatisfaction with current results despite positive improvements and emphasized the need for significantly improved returns to shareholders [75] - The company sees long-term opportunities for growth in the nuclear market and plans to expand beyond traditional North American markets [38] Other Important Information - The total backlog at 12/31/2024 was $378.9 million, flat compared to 12/31/2023 [27] - Capital expenditures for full year 2024 were $12.2 million, including final capitalization of the U.S. Forged plant modernization [28] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the game plan for the UK situation? - The company is in a collective consultation process to explore options for reducing losses, which could lead to government support or potential closure of the plant [32][34] Question: Are there additional markets to enter in the Air and Liquid division? - Management indicated that there is increased activity within current markets and opportunities to expand beyond North America, particularly in the nuclear sector [36][38] Question: What are the plans for addressing debt levels? - The company plans to manage debt levels through working capital adjustments and is optimistic about reducing debt if demand increases [40][41] Question: What is the year-end backlog by business segment? - The backlog was flat with 2023, with Forged and Cast Engineered Products at $250.5 million and Air and Liquid Processing at $128.4 million [51] Question: Are mill rolls subject to tariffs? - Mill rolls are classified as rolling mill components and are not subject to tariffs, allowing for imports from Europe without additional costs [53][54]