Ternium(TX) - 2025 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted EBITDA increased by 25% in the second quarter, primarily driven by stronger realized steel prices in Mexico, partially offset by a slight increase in cost per ton [14] - Net income for the second quarter amounted to $259 million, including a $40 million provision adjustment related to ongoing litigation [15] - Adjusted net income, excluding the provision, was $299 million, supported by better operational performance and favorable deferred tax results due to a 7.5% revaluation of the Mexican peso [15] 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 [16] - Iron ore shipments rose quarter over quarter driven by increased production levels, although net sales remained broadly unchanged due to lower realized prices [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Mexican market is experiencing a cautious business environment, with government measures contributing to a decrease in steel imports, creating a more level playing field [6][8] - The Brazilian steel market faces significant challenges due to a surge of unfair imported steel, particularly from China, undermining local competitiveness [8] - Argentina saw a significant increase in shipments during the second quarter, driven by seasonal factors and a recovering macroeconomic environment [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on reducing costs to strengthen competitiveness, with ongoing initiatives aimed at optimizing production processes and supply chains [10][11] - The expansion project in Pesqueria is a cornerstone of the company's growth strategy, with expectations of increased shipments in Mexico [8][10] - The company is committed to sustainable industrial development, as highlighted in their sustainable report [11] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - The operating environment remains uncertain and volatile, with expectations of a sequential improvement in the third quarter, particularly in Mexico [4][5] - Management is optimistic about ongoing negotiations between the U.S. and Mexico leading to mutually beneficial agreements [7] - The company anticipates a mixed performance across key markets, with growth expected in Mexico and steady shipments in Argentina, while Brazil continues to face headwinds [17] Other Important Information - Cash from operations totaled $1 billion in the second quarter, aided by a significant reduction in working capital [19] - The company’s net cash position decreased primarily due to elevated capital expenditures and dividend distributions, but remains solid at $1 billion [20] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you elaborate on the state of steel supply in Mexico? - Management indicated that recent trade measures have led to lower imports, and they expect to gain market share due to these developments [22][23][25] Question: What is the outlook for cost reduction initiatives? - Management expects a total of $300 million in cost efficiency improvements for the year, with various initiatives contributing to this target [29][61] Question: What is the expected improvement in EBITDA? - Management anticipates reaching an average EBITDA margin closer to 15% by the fourth quarter, supported by cost reduction measures [40][41] Question: What is the status of the CSN litigation? - The litigation remains pending, with an appeal filed and awaiting a decision from the Supreme Court of Justice in Brazil [50][52] Question: What are the plans for capital allocation and dividends? - The company plans to sustain dividend payments while managing significant capital expenditures, with a peak expected this quarter [71][75]