Ternium(TX) - 2025 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Ternium's adjusted EBITDA increased by 25% in Q2 2025, primarily driven by stronger realized steel prices in Mexico, despite a slight increase in cost per ton [15][16] - Net income for Q2 2025 amounted to $259 million, including a $40 million provision adjustment related to ongoing litigation, with adjusted net income excluding this provision at $299 million [16][22] - Cash from operations totaled $1 billion in Q2 2025, supported by a significant reduction in working capital [21][22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Shipments in the steel segment declined primarily in Mexico and the U.S., partially mitigated by higher volumes in the southern region [17][18] - Iron ore shipments rose quarter over quarter due to increased production levels, although net sales remained broadly unchanged due to lower realized prices [20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Mexican steel market is experiencing a cautious environment with pending clarity on U.S. trade policy, while the Brazilian market faces challenges from a surge in unfair imported steel [6][8] - Argentina saw a significant increase in shipments during Q2 2025, driven by seasonal factors and a recovering macroeconomic environment [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Ternium is focused on reducing costs to strengthen competitiveness, with ongoing initiatives aimed at optimizing production processes and supply chains [11][12] - The company is committed to its expansion project in Pesqueria, which is seen as a cornerstone of its growth strategy [7][12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in a sequential improvement in shipments for Q3 2025, particularly in Mexico, supported by government measures against unfair trade practices [6][18] - The operating environment remains uncertain and volatile, with management emphasizing the need for concrete measures to defend the Brazilian industrial base [9][10] Other Important Information - Ternium released a sustainable report reaffirming its commitment to long-term value creation through sustainable industrial development [12] - The company anticipates a peak in capital expenditures (CapEx) in Q2 2025, with projections for a decrease in the following quarters [73][74] Q&A Session Summary Question: State of steel supply in Mexico - Management indicated that recent trade measures have led to lower imports, which may help rebalance the steel market, and Ternium is well-positioned to capture market share [25][30] Question: Cost outlook and reduction initiatives - Management expects a $300 million decrease in cost efficiency for the year, with various initiatives contributing to this target [32][33] Question: Magnitude of potential EBITDA improvement - Management anticipates a recovery in EBITDA margins, aiming for around 15% by Q4 2025, supported by cost reduction measures [42][43] Question: Update on CSN litigation - There have been no significant developments in the CSN litigation, and the next steps involve awaiting a decision from the Supreme Court of Justice [52][53] Question: CapEx cycle and allocation strategy - Management confirmed that the peak of CapEx occurred in Q2 2025, with a projected decrease in the following quarters, while maintaining dividend payments [73][77]