Alcoa(AA) - 2025 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue decreased by 10% sequentially to $3 billion, with net income attributable to Alcoa at $164 million compared to $548 million in the prior quarter, resulting in earnings per share of $0.62 [10][11] - Adjusted EBITDA was $313 million, down $542 million sequentially, primarily due to lower alumina and aluminum prices and increased U.S. Section 232 tariff costs [11][12] - Year-to-date return on equity was positive at 22.5%, with cash flow from operations providing $488 million [15][14] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the Alumina segment, third-party revenue decreased by 28% due to lower average realized prices, partially offset by increased shipments [10] - The Aluminum segment saw a 3% increase in third-party revenue due to increased shipments and favorable currency impacts, despite a decrease in average realized prices [10][11] - Adjusted EBITDA for the Alumina segment decreased by $525 million, while the Aluminum segment's adjusted EBITDA decreased by $37 million, impacted by U.S. Section 232 tariff costs [12][13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Alumina prices rebounded somewhat after a sharp decline, with over 80% of Chinese refineries operating at a deficit due to high bauxite prices [27] - U.S. Midwest premium increased to $0.68 per pound but remains below the estimated $0.75 needed to fully offset tariff costs [30][55] - Demand conditions remain steady in Europe and North America, with mixed sector performance; electrical and packaging sectors are performing well, while automotive is affected by tariff-related uncertainty [32] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on executing its 2025 priorities, enhancing operational competitiveness, and navigating market dynamics to deliver long-term value [36] - Alcoa is advocating for trade policies that support both the company and the broader U.S. aluminum industry, while also redirecting Canadian production to non-U.S. customers to mitigate tariff impacts [9][77] - The long-term demand forecast for aluminum remains robust, driven by megatrends in transportation, construction, packaging, and electrical sectors [23][24] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that while tariffs create near-term volatility, the broader outlook for aluminum demand remains strong, supported by global megatrends [23][26] - The company expects aluminum shipments to be adjusted to 2.5 to 2.6 million metric tons for the year, down from an initial estimate of 2.6 to 2.8 million metric tons due to disruptions at the San Ciprian smelter [16] - Management expressed confidence in navigating the challenges posed by tariffs and market dynamics, with plans to continue engaging with policymakers [8][77] Other Important Information - The company successfully concluded a five-year tax dispute in Australia with a favorable ruling, affirming no additional tax owed [7] - Alcoa's cash position at the end of the quarter was $1.5 billion, with plans to use proceeds from the sale of its stake in the Mauden joint ventures to pay related taxes and transaction fees [14][15] - The company is progressing with approvals for new mine regions in Western Australia, although timelines have been extended due to the complexity of the process [34][36] Q&A Session Summary Question: Impact of potential 50% tariffs on Brazil - Management indicated that the impact depends on whether alumina is excluded from the tariffs, with options to source from Western Australia if necessary [40][41] Question: Contingency plans for Western Australia - Management stated that no cost impact is anticipated for 2025 or 2026, with contingency plans in place to manage delays [42][46] Question: Tariff costs and Midwest premium offset - Management clarified that the second quarter tariff costs were approximately $115 million, with a Midwest premium uptick of about $60 million, resulting in margin compression [50][51] Question: San Ciprian cash burn expectations for 2026 - Management noted that while the smelter is expected to be profitable post-ramp-up, the refinery will likely incur losses [60][62] Question: Restarting spare capacity at Warrick - Management explained that restarting the fourth line at Warrick requires significant investment and time, making it contingent on tariff stability [68][70] Question: Discussions with the government regarding tariffs - Management emphasized ongoing advocacy efforts to educate the government on the aluminum market's tightness and the importance of U.S.-Canada supply chains [116][120] Question: Capital management and debt reduction - Management indicated progress in reducing net debt, with plans to evaluate capital allocation priorities once the target range is reached [120][121]