Worthington Steel(US:WS)2025-06-26 13:32Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted EBITDA for Q4 2025 was $87 million, slightly up from $86.5 million in the prior year quarter [4] - Earnings per share increased to $1.1 from $1.06 year-over-year [5][17] - Net sales decreased by $78 million or 9% year-over-year to $833 million, primarily due to lower direct selling prices [23] - Estimated pretax inventory holding gains were $20.8 million compared to losses of $3.4 million in the prior year quarter, a favorable swing of $24.2 million [20] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Automotive shipments increased by 5% year-over-year, contributing positively to overall performance [24] - Construction market volumes were down 5% year-over-year, consistent with historical fourth-quarter levels [26] - Agricultural market volumes decreased by 40% compared to the prior year quarter due to softness in agricultural equipment and increased competition [26] - Toll processing tons were down 11% year-over-year, impacted by various factors including customer decisions and the idling of a facility [27] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Market pricing for hot rolled coil started the year at just under $700 per ton, spiked to $950 per ton due to tariffs, and then fell to approximately $850 per ton [22] - The U.S. transformer market is expected to double over the next ten years, driven by electrification demand [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on three strategic pillars: investments in electrical steel, margin-accretive growth through strategic CapEx and acquisitions, and base business improvements [7] - The acquisition of a 52% stake in CEDIM enhances the company's position in the European electric motor lamination market [10][30] - The company is embracing artificial intelligence to improve productivity and quality [13] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed cautious optimism regarding the macroeconomic environment and ongoing uncertainty around tariffs [15] - The company is focused on improving processes and gaining market share despite headwinds [15] - Management believes the right strategy and strong customer relationships will drive future growth [15] Other Important Information - The company announced a quarterly dividend of $0.16 per share payable on September 26, 2025 [29] - Cash flow from operations was $54 million, with free cash flow of $8 million [28] Q&A Session Summary Question: How did the company achieve a richer mix of direct tons and stronger metal spreads? - Management noted that Q4 is typically the strongest quarter, and while volume was flat year-over-year, there was a significant quarter-over-quarter increase [36][37] Question: What is the outlook for galvanized spreads moving into fiscal year 2026? - Management expressed cautious optimism, citing tariff impacts and increased anti-dumping measures that may improve market conditions [40][42] Question: How can the company continue to succeed in the automotive market despite OEM destocking? - Management highlighted significant market share gains and strong relationships with automotive customers as key factors for success [44][47] Question: What are the competitive dynamics in the Taylor welded blanks business? - Management explained that the market is highly technical with few players in North America, and they are focused on lightweighting and part consolidation [52][56]