Harley-Davidson(US:HOG)2025-05-01 13:00Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Harley Davidson's consolidated revenue in Q1 2025 decreased by 23% compared to the previous year, with operating income down 51% at HDMC, partially offset by a 19% increase in operating income at HDFS [18][19][26] - The consolidated operating income margin for Q1 was 12.1%, down from 15.2% in the same quarter last year, primarily due to lower volume and dealer inventory management [19][32] - Earnings per share for Q1 was reported at $1.07 [19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - HDMC revenue decreased by 27% in Q1, driven by a 33% decline in motorcycle shipments, totaling 39,000 units compared to 58,000 units in the prior year [21][22] - HDFS revenue was $245 million, a decrease of 2%, while operating income increased by 19% to $64 million due to lower provisions for credit losses [26][27] - LiveWire segment reported an operating loss of $20 million, which was an improvement from a $29 million loss in the prior year [29] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Global retail sales were down 21% in Q1, with a 24% decline in North America, attributed to low consumer confidence [5][6] - EMEA region saw a retail decline of just 2%, while APAC experienced a 28% decline, primarily due to softness in China and Japan [7] - LATAM reported a 6% decline in retail sales year over year [7] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on a significant marketing development fund to support dealer networks and product launches closer to the riding season [6][10] - Harley Davidson plans to introduce new entry-level products and expand its cruiser offerings, aiming for affordability and profitability [10][11] - The company is evaluating its investment in LiveWire due to challenges in the EV segment and plans to drive cost savings to achieve a sustainable business model [11][12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed concerns over the uncertain macroeconomic environment and its impact on consumer confidence, leading to the withdrawal of previous 2025 guidance [12][32] - There is cautious optimism regarding trade deals that may mitigate tariff impacts, although the situation remains fluid [13][56] - Sequential improvement in retail sales was noted from February to April, indicating potential recovery [65][66] Other Important Information - The company achieved $142 million in operating cash flow, an increase from the prior period, and ended Q1 with $1.9 billion in cash and cash equivalents [31][32] - Harley Davidson repurchased 3.4 million shares for $87 million in Q1 as part of its capital allocation strategy [31][33] Q&A Session Summary Question: What might the economics of a long-term strategic partnership look like for Harley Davidson? - Management emphasized the importance of demonstrating the premium value of HDFS and maintaining long-term funding optionality [36][38] Question: Is it fair to say that the genesis of the HDFS sale consideration is due to not receiving full value in stock? - Management confirmed the strategic nature of HDFS and the need to ensure its value is recognized [44][45] Question: Can you provide color on the various tariff sources and their impacts? - Management discussed the significant impact of tariffs, particularly from China, and the proactive measures taken to mitigate these effects [51][57] Question: How has the retail environment changed recently? - Management noted sequential improvement in retail sales from February to April, with expectations for easier comparisons in the second half of the year [65][66] Question: What led to the decision to bring back entry-level bikes? - The decision was based on a strategic focus on selective expansion and the belief that new entry-level models can be competitive and profitable [88][90] Question: What are the annual cost savings targets for LiveWire? - LiveWire is targeting reduced operating losses and cash burn, with significant cost-saving measures in place [98][99]