Cliffs(US:CLF)2025-07-21 13:30Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted EBITDA in Q2 improved by $271 million from the prior quarter, driven by higher shipment volumes and operational efficiency [4] - Average selling price increased to $10.15 per ton, a $35 per ton increase from the prior quarter, primarily due to higher index pricing [20] - Unit costs decreased by $15 per ton, contrary to previous expectations of a slight increase [20] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Volumes reached 4.3 million tons, a 150,000 ton increase from the prior quarter, allowing for more efficient mill operations [20] - The stainless steel business saw a significant investment of $150 million in a bright annealing line, expected to improve quality and productivity [16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The U.S. steel market remains strong, with Section 232 tariffs positively impacting both the steel and automotive sectors [5][6] - Imported steel and automotive imports hit multi-year lows, indicating a favorable environment for domestic producers [6] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on cost-cutting and optimizing its footprint, with initiatives expected to show impact in the second half of the year [4] - Cleveland Cliffs is positioned to support the resurgence in American vehicle production, leveraging its integrated business model [14][18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the macro trends aligning favorably for the company, anticipating a better second half of 2025 compared to the first half [28] - The company expects to continue reducing costs and improving EBITDA generation in the coming quarters [26] Other Important Information - The company ended the quarter with $2.7 billion in liquidity and no near-term maturities, with net debt on a downward trajectory [23] - Plans for potential non-core asset sales are underway, which could unlock significant value for shareholders [24][93] Q&A Session Summary Question: How should we think about the cadence of cost reductions from here? - Management expects costs to decrease by another $20 per ton from Q2 to Q3, with further reductions anticipated in Q4 [32] Question: Can you provide insights on CapEx expectations for 2027? - There is no reline scheduled for 2026, and the Middletown project is being revamped to enhance operations without hydrogen [34][36] Question: How should we think about free cash flow generation in the second half? - Free cash flow is expected to improve significantly, with a focus on using cash to pay down debt [41] Question: What are the expectations for average selling price and volume in Q3? - Shipments are expected to remain flat at 4.3 million tons, with continued EBITDA improvement anticipated [52][56] Question: What is the outlook for the Canadian market? - Management believes there is potential for growth in Canada, contingent on local policies and market conditions [60][62] Question: Can you discuss automotive volumes in Q2? - Automotive volumes are growing as OEMs shift production back to the U.S. and reduce reliance on imports [69][70]